Beyond Survival toward Thriving: Emerging Research on Fostering Holistic Teacher Wellbeing

Session Type: Working Group Roundtable

Abstract

AERA’s 2026 conference theme reflects a need to reimagine educational practices that honor and support the full range of teachers’ humanity, enabling them to push beyond survival and thrive in this demanding profession and adversarial political climate. In a landscape of perpetual teacher burnout and turnover, this Working Group Roundtable unites teacher education scholars studying how to holistically understand and support teacher wellbeing. Five studies will be shared that address various interconnected topics, field-tested and methodological approaches relevant to the comprehensive wellbeing and professional thriving of teachers across career stages, identities, and areas of expertise. The session will include paper presentations, structured discussion, and networking opportunities to explore frameworks and methodologies for promoting teacher wellbeing, success, and professional longevity.

Sub Unit

• SIG-Lives of Teachers

Chair

• Kristina M. Valtierra, Colorado College

Papers

• Empowering Early Career Teachers to Thrive: The Role of Purpose, Patience, and Community - Kristina M. Valtierra, Colorado College

• Supporting Pre-Service LGBTQIA2S+ Teachers in Precarious Times - MaryJohn R. Pachuta-Rysak, Grand Valley State University; Sarah Chase, Grand Valley State University; Kelly Lormand, Grand Valley State University

• Peer Mentoring Future Special Educators to “Fight the Fight Worth Fighting” - Shana J. Haines, University of Vermont; Kristabel Stark, University of Vermont; Parker Goss, University of Vermont

• Recruiting and Retaining Special Educator Mentor Teachers: Motivators and Challenges - Kristabel Stark, University of Vermont; Shana J. Haines, University of Vermont

• Teaching Through Trauma: Supporting Teachers Through Times of Personal Trauma and Loss - Dulcey Hunter, University of South Florida - Tampa

Session Organizer

• Kristina M. Valtierra, Colorado College