The Impact of Administrative Leadership Styles on Early Career Charter School Teacher Attrition

• In Event: Leadership Practices for Developing Teachers and Teamwork

Abstract

This qualitative phenomenological study explores the influence of administrative leadership styles on teacher attrition among Early Career Elementary Charter School Teachers (ECTs) in New York City. Charter schools experience significantly higher attrition rates compared to public schools, exacerbating challenges in maintaining instructional continuity and morale. Using the Jobs Demand Resource (JD-R) Model, this study investigates how leadership styles impact ECTs' decisions to stay or leave their positions. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with 9 ECTs and 4 administrators, and analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings reveal that administrative support, leadership visibility, and collaborative decision-making significantly influence ECTs' job satisfaction and retention. This research provides critical insights for developing leadership practices aimed at reducing teacher attrition in charter schools.

Author

• Lashante Mystic Briscoe, Northcentral University