Date of Conferral

2016

Degree

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

School

Education

Advisor

Peter Kiriakidis

Abstract

This qualitative case study addressed the impact of administration and school leadership on teachers who encounter burnout. The purpose of this project study was to examine this phenomenon through the experiences of Grades 9-12 classroom teachers, which ultimately could reduce the amount of early retirees, reduce the amount of illnesses among teachers, and increase the enthusiasm and vitality of educators. The conceptual framework was based on Bandura's social learning theory. Interview data were collected from four high school educators using purposive sampling, through semi structured face-to-face inter-views, and were coded using a line-by-line content analysis for emergent themes. Findings included positive and negative experiences of teacher burnout, the encounter of change and flexibility, and the importance of professional collaboration. Through the findings of this study, teachers are encouraged to engage in direct coping strategies such as improving class management skills to help with a positive workday. Indirect coping strategies include participation in sports activities outside school hours. Strategies are offered for administrators to support teachers on fostering empathy, relationship building, and communication. The outcomes are beneficial to local school and district administrators to support a positive working environment for teachers in which all students can learn. Positive social change at the local level includes senior district administrators making decisions on the allocation of human and capital resources to help burned out teachers.

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