Competitive Contract

Haverford's educational excellence has always been supported by our ability to attract and retain top talent through competitive compensation. 

The Board’s current proposal would reverse this advantage at both ends of the career spectrum. A new Haverford teacher would need five years of experience and a Master's degree to match what neighboring districts offer fresh graduates with just a Bachelor's degree. Meanwhile, our veteran teachers—who represent nearly half of our staff and bring decades of expertise—would earn less than their counterparts in districts we've historically led. This shift from leading to lagging threatens our ability to attract promising new educators and retain the experienced professionals who anchor our educational excellence. Both dynamics put at risk the caliber of teachers that sets Haverford apart.

Recent reports on the national teacher shortage impacting Delaware County and PA

“Delaware County is one of dozens of Pa. counties facing a dire teacher shortage.”  -Philadelphia Inquirer, 7/18/25

A teacher shortage that was described as “very high” with 586 additional teachers needed for the county’s schools.

“Nearly 9,000 teachers in Pennsylvania left the profession in 2024”
-CBSNews, 8/5/2025

9,000 teachers left teaching in PA last year and 9,500 the year before due in part to salary stagnation and higher paying opportunities. Compounding the issue is the number of educators coming out of college which has dropped over 60% in the past ten years. There were only 5,600 certifications issued last year.