Date of Conferral

10-26-2025

Degree

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

School

Education

Advisor

Michael Vinella

Abstract

Teacher attrition presents a significant challenge for Northeastern State Middle School Districts (NSMSD), threatening educational stability and student outcomes. This qualitative study examined Grade 6–8 teachers’ perceptions of resilience as a factor influencing their decisions to remain in the teaching profession. Grounded in resilience theory, the study explored how teachers overcame professional challenges and identified supports that promoted retention, addressing a gap in existing research. Using a basic qualitative design, semistructured interviews were conducted with 14 purposefully selected middle school teachers from NSMSD. Reflexive thematic analysis using open coding revealed five key themes: individual resilience factors, relational supports and collegial connections, systemic and workplace conditions, leadership dynamics, and middle school–specific challenges. Findings indicated that resilience was not solely an individual trait but was shaped by school-wide and systemic supports, which directly influenced retention decisions. The resulting white paper project provides district leaders with practical recommendations, reflection tools, and planning strategies to strengthen teacher resilience and reduce turnover. Implications for positive social change include equipping leaders with actionable strategies to sustain teacher well-being, foster long-term retention, and ensure consistent, high-quality instruction for middle school students.

Download

Share

 
COinS