Teacher burnout is a well-known issue in the current K-12 landscape, and school principals are at the forefront of improving school culture to combat the resulting teacher shortage. Only 12% of teachers say they are happy in their positions, and over 40% are likely to leave their jobs within two years. Teachers have cited heavy workloads accompanying low salaries, safety concerns, and ongoing staff shortages as reasons to leave the profession. Considering the research, reversing the teacher shortage seems insurmountable. However, by prioritizing collaborative practices and creating supportive environments, principals can significantly influence the stability and success of their teachers and schools.
The Power of Support
Research shows that turnover rates among teachers rise as high as 25% if those teachers do not feel administrators encourage or acknowledge them or communicate goals. In contrast, the turnover rate is only half as high for teachers who feel supported.
School principals looking to reduce teacher burnout and turnover must actively collaborate with their teachers and staff. Each teacher may have their unique concerns, and some may be too big to be addressed by solely one person. By improving school culture and creating a supportive environment where teachers can come forward to express their ideas, concerns, and requests for aid, principals can see increased trust and retention among teachers and staff.
A Model of Success
For a success story in collaboration, look no further than Principal Jon Wilcox at Petoskey Middle School. After serving as principal for nine years, he was recently awarded the title of Michigan 2024 Principal of the Year for his focus on well-being, positive school culture, and prioritizing collaboration.
Petoskey holds regular meetings with teachers and counselors to discuss students needing extra support. With thorough discussions on what strategies were or weren’t helpful for the student, Petoskey created a culture of student wellness by seriously considering the experiences of teachers and staff. Petoskey’s success in collaboration is an important reference for other principals looking to develop their leadership skills to be more encouraging toward teachers and staff.
Leading Through Collaboration
The role of a school principal is not one of omnipotence. Instead, it thrives on collaboration and shared leadership. By fostering an environment where teachers feel supported and valued, principals can mitigate the factors contributing to burnout and high turnover rates. Engaging teachers and staff in decision-making processes not only builds trust but also empowers them to take an active role in shaping the educational experience. This collaborative approach is crucial for improving school culture and creating an environment where teachers, staff, and students thrive.
