Scaffolding Dispositions for Teacher Retention

This chapter presents a comprehensive framework for developing professional dispositions in pre-service teachers to address teacher retention challenges. Drawing from Utah's Portrait of a First Year Teacher and competency-based learning, the authors detail a systemic approach cultivating six key dispositions: self-efficacy, high learning expectations, ethical professionalism, reflective practice, emotional intelligence, and educational equity. The scaffolded model spans three phases—pre-program, in-program, and student teaching—using cohort structures and university-K-12 partnerships. Grounded in systems thinking and adult learning principles, the framework treats dispositions as learnable competencies. The chapter provides implementation guidelines, assessment protocols, and effectiveness evidence. Research shows early-career teachers with strong dispositional foundations demonstrate greater retention and resilience, making this a promising intervention for workforce instability.