Celebrating Teacher and Staff Milestones: Thanks to the Advisory Board and HSA for supporting teacher appreciation and retention efforts!

Congratulations to the following faculty and staff on their employment anniversary!

5 years Maia Gillet AND Jacqueline Nelson

10 years Anna Gabriel , Margaret Pikulski,, AND Gina Zadrozny

15 years Mary Deletioglu, Ben Mazzone, AND Rachel Metz

25 years Cathy Kattner

Teacher retention is a critical issue in Catholic schools, where educators often serve not only as academic instructors but also as faith leaders and community builders. High turnover can disrupt school culture, diminish instructional quality, and strain financial resources. Therefore, intentional and sustained teacher retention efforts are essential to maintaining the mission and vitality of Catholic education thanks to the support of the School Advisory Board and The Home and School Association.

Why Teacher Retention Matters in Catholic Schools

  • Mission Continuity: Catholic schools aim to form students spiritually, morally, and intellectually. Teachers are central to this mission, and retaining experienced educators ensures consistency in faith-based instruction and values formation.

  • Community Stability: Teachers in Catholic schools often build deep relationships with students, families, and parish communities. High retention fosters trust and a sense of belonging, which are foundational to Catholic school identity.

  • Cost Efficiency: Recruiting and training new teachers is costly. Retaining staff reduces these expenses and allows schools to invest more in professional development and student resources.

  • Academic Excellence: Experienced teachers are more effective in the classroom. Retention supports academic achievement by preserving instructional quality and curriculum continuity.

Key Retention Strategies at SBPS

Leadership and Curriculum Stipends Offering stipends for teachers who take on leadership roles or contribute to curriculum development recognizes their expertise and commitment. These stipends:

  • Encourage professional growth.

  • Empower teachers to shape school direction.

  • Provide financial incentives that reflect added responsibilities.

Teacher Retention Bonuses: Financial bonuses tied to years of service can:

  • Motivate teachers to remain in their roles longer.

  • Acknowledge the value of long-term commitment.

  • Help offset the often lower salaries in Catholic schools compared to public counterparts.

School Culture Enhancements A positive, mission-driven school culture is a powerful retention tool.

  • Strategies include:

  • Regular faith formation and spiritual retreats for staff.

  • Collaborative decision-making and shared leadership.

  • Celebrations of teacher achievements and milestones.

  • Mentorship programs for new teachers.

Investing in teacher retention is not just a practical necessity—it is a moral imperative for Catholic schools committed to forming the whole person. By implementing thoughtful strategies like stipends, bonuses, and culture-building initiatives, St. Benedict Prep honors our educators, strengthens our community, and ensures the enduring success of our mission.


Rachel Gemo