Yorkville School District Achieves 92.5% Teacher Retention Rate

Yorkville School District 115 has reported a teacher retention rate of 92.5% for the year 2025, reflecting a steady upward trend in the district’s efforts to retain certified teachers. This figure follows a significant increase from 88.5% in 2021, showcasing the effectiveness of recent initiatives aimed at improving teacher recruitment and retention.

During the recent State of the District event, Superintendent Matt Zediker outlined several strategies implemented by the board to enhance teacher support. Among these initiatives are increased pay for substitute teachers, sponsorship programs for staff pursuing master’s degrees, and reimbursement for coursework. Additionally, the district has introduced paid positions for student teachers and co-curricular stipends, all in an effort to provide “regionally competitive salary and benefits.”

A report presented to the board indicated that while the retention rate experienced a slight decline from 92.8% in 2024, the overall trend has been positive. The report noted that the number of certified resignations rose to 43 in 2025, compared to 40 in the previous year. This is a significant improvement when compared to the 54 resignations recorded in 2021.

Growth in Certified Staff

The district has also seen a consistent increase in the number of new hires. In the transition from 2024 to 2025, 63 new certified employees joined the district, marking an 11% increase in the total roster of certified teachers, which now stands at 582. This hiring rate is consistent with the 11% growth observed in the previous academic year but is notably lower than the 18% increase recorded between 2021 and 2022.

Looking ahead, the district plans to welcome 25 paid student teachers next spring, the highest number in its history. Superintendent Zediker emphasized the importance of fostering partnerships with local institutions, such as Aurora University, to attract new talent. He highlighted the district’s commitment to supporting these educators throughout their careers, ensuring they remain engaged and dedicated to their roles as Foxes.

The ongoing focus on teacher retention and recruitment reflects Yorkville School District 115’s dedication to enhancing educational quality and maintaining a stable workforce for its students. As the district continues to implement these strategies, it aims to further strengthen its teaching staff, ultimately benefiting the entire community.