"We Were Kept in the Dark": Teacher Perspectives on Return to Learning Plans

• In Event: COVID-19 and K–12 Teachers' Well-Being and Mental Health

Abstract

This study explored teacher perceptions at the end of the 2020-2021 school year. During the 2020-2021 school year, schools required teachers to teach in multiple formats, adjust instruction and implement safety measures due to COVID-19. We explored teacher burnout and administrative support. The sample included 392 K-12 teachers from the United States (33 states). Participants completed a survey that included measures of burnout, administrative support, and short answer responses. The results found differences in burnout and administrative support based on teacher perception of their district’s plan. Qualitative themes included extra work, lack of administrative support, and difficulty implementing COVID-19 policies. School leaders need to be aware of teacher burnout and support teachers to limit teacher attrition.

Authors

• Tim Pressley, Christopher Newport University
  Presenting Author

• Mathew Kidd
  Non-Presenting Author

• Sarah Wheatley
  Non-Presenting Author