Understanding Perceptions of Educator Well-Being in the Return to In-Person Instruction Following COVID-19 Closures

• In Event: Thursday Roundtable Session 2:30 pm
  In Roundtable Session: Racial Coping Roundtable (Table 15)

Abstract

The time period that school closed and reopened during COVID-19 was challenging for educators. This qualitative study investigated educators' perceptions and experiences of their professional well-being and the extent to which their personal actions and school district leaders facilitated responses following the return of in person instruction and the loosening of COVID-19 protocols three years later (i.e., spring 2023). Findings suggest the need for external support from policy makers and administrators that focus on enacting systemic support for educators and their students to increase learning and retention of educators in the field.

Authors

• Heather Walter, George Mason University

• Karly Ball Isaacson, Michigan State University

• Katherine Szocik, George Mason University

• Hallie Fox, The George Washington University