Change Is the Only Constant: Beginning Teacher Perceptions of Implementing the Common Core State Standards

Abstract

This study explored the relationship between implementing the CCSS and beginning teacher attrition. This study is important for three related reasons: a) mandated reform has been linked to professional vulnerability (Day et al., 2005), b) vulnerability has been linked to diminished self-efficacy (Lasky, 2005), and c) diminished self-efficacy has been linked to teacher attrition (Skaalvik & Skaalvik, 2007). Semi-structured interviews with 3 elementary beginning teachers were analyzed to uncover key themes. Our participants said the change experienced was overwhelming. Findings may help policy-makers and teacher-leaders understand beginning teachers' experiences implementing reform in order to diminish rampant beginning teacher attrition.

Keywords

• beginning teachers
• faculty mobility
• educational change
• common core state standards
• elementary education
• qualitative research