But there have always been retention problems which is why I asked the question. We have short memories. But I know when I started decades ago there were lots of people that started with me and only made it a few years before leaving teaching. I also know in that building there were a number of years that were 50% turnover and in other buildings in the district. Let's get real data to see what the real trend is instead of saying "job boards are full" or "the news says there is a teacher shortage". And that last one, well, there are a LOT of band directors that won't be able to find a job this year because there are more band directors than available jobs so.... Real, hard data.

And yes, MS programs are competitive but NONE of them spend the time that a high school band does. Marching band and then Indoor season are completely different than a middle school band having an hour sectional after school one day a week per section or maybe an hour band rehearsal once a week to record for honor band. Marching bands are doing 8 hours of rehearsal plus games and contests all while also working on region Jazz, Orchestra, and Band. And that's just through December.