Early Childhood Special Education Teacher Attrition
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Authors
Holderith, Virginia
Issue Date
2026-02
Type
Dissertation
Language
en
Keywords
Early Childhood Special Education Teacher , ECSE retention , Special Education Teacher Attrition , Early Childhood Teacher Attrition , Teacher Retention , Educational Leadership & Learning Lifelong , Workforce Development Needs & Industry Alignment
Alternative Title
Abstract
The problem addressed in this study was the high attrition rate in early childhood special education teachers. The purpose of this qualitative exploratory case study was to understand experienced early childhood special education teachers’ strategies to reduce attrition. The theoretical framework chosen for this study was social constructivism. The population for this study was experienced early childhood special education teachers in the United States. The final sample size was 12 current and former early childhood special education teachers with five or more years’ experience in Washington State. The individual semi-structured interviews were conducted via an online platform interview either with Zoom or in person. The interviews were audio recorded and transcribed through Zoom interview software. The data was then coded for themes with the help of NVivo software. The analysis approach used was thematic analysis which assisted in the discovery of 12 categories and six themes that answered the two research questions. The findings revealed multiple quotes from the participants with an abundance of positive reflections and reasons why these ECSE teachers stayed in the profession for more than four years. The study recommended avenues for early childhood teacher retention which included mentorship with an experienced team of early childhood special education teachers, constructive administrative support, a positive team culture, and professional development that is relevant for the early childhood special education teacher. The study noted that teachers need to be prepared academically, have an internship with continued mentoring, good workplace conditions, and positive administrative support.