Introduction:
As school leaders work to improve student outcomes, one powerful yet under-leveraged factor continues to stand out: teacher engagement.
At Upbeat, we know engaged teachers are more likely to stay. But our latest exploratory analysis suggests something more: when teachers feel supported and connected, student success may follow.
Why Engagement Matters
A supportive school climate influences how teachers show up each day—whether they feel energized, respected, and equipped to do their best work. Engagement isn’t just about happiness; it’s about investment, connection, and impact.
Recent data shows that teacher engagement correlates with instructional quality, classroom consistency, and stronger student experiences.
What We Found at Upbeat
During the 2023-2024 school year, Upbeat conducted an exploratory analysis across three large partner districts. We found that:
Schools with higher average teacher engagement in Fall 2023 tended to have higher student math achievement in Spring 2024.
This relationship remained even after adjusting for prior achievement, school size, and socioeconomic context.
Many factors contribute to student achievement, and teacher engagement is just one piece of the puzzle. This early finding provides a promising foundation for future research—and for school leaders looking to make strategic, culture-driven investments.
What National Research Says
Gallup (2014):
In a national survey of 600,000 students, those who strongly agreed they had at least one teacher who made them excited about the future and that their school was committed to their strengths were 30 times more likely to be engaged in school than peers who strongly disagreed. That’s a staggering difference in emotional investment tied to teacher-student relationships.
Kraft & Papay (2014):
Teachers working in schools with strong professional environments improved their instructional effectiveness 38% more over 10 years than peers in less supportive settings. These environments included strong leadership, peer collaboration, and a positive school climate.
EdWeek Research Center – State of Teaching 2025:
The latest national data shows teacher morale is improving, with EdWeek’s Teacher Morale Index rising from -13 to +18. Teachers reported that improved leadership support, increased staffing, and professional climate investments were driving factors behind this progress. These same elements—when present—help students succeed too.
Why This Matters for School Leaders
Improving student outcomes often begins with supporting the adults in the building. When teachers feel engaged—when they trust their leadership, see their input valued, and experience growth—they are more likely to show up with energy and focus for students each day.
That’s where Upbeat comes in. Our surveys, coaching, and data insights help districts understand how teachers are experiencing their work—and take actionable steps to build stronger, more supportive environments.
The Takeaway:
Teacher engagement isn’t just about retention. It’s about instruction. It’s about climate. And—according to our latest findings—it might be about achievement, too.
If you’re looking to elevate student success, start by listening to your teachers.
