Leader Mental Health: Superintendents
In a rare occurrence of public vulnerability, superintendents and other school leaders expressed their struggles with mental health and the difficulties they face in their role.
- “Superintendents need your love, support and prayers, too. I’m coming up on my one year anniversary with many more to go, but I know it is not for the faint of heart on any level. Everyday you just hope the decisions you make, most people agree with. You keep your eyes on what’s best for children knowing that if all don’t agree you can still sleep at night. My fellow superintendents, if no one else does, I salute you.” —Superintendent in Ohio
- “48% of principals are dealing with burnout, while 28% report symptoms of depression. Teachers and staff, take time to let your admin know you appreciate all they do too! They are part of ‘We’” —School Leader in Georigia
- “It’s startling to see the overwhelming shifts in leadership occurring in educational leadership both in the principal ranks and the superintendent ranks.” —Superintendent in South Dakota
- “If you have a good leader, be sure to thank them – Everyone needs encouragement. When good people feel unappreciated, they will seek appreciation elsewhere… If you enjoy your work experience each day, and want them to stay, take a moment and thank a leader!” —School Leader in Georgia
- “Dealt with burnout twice in 5 years as an administrator. Many life changes and a need for daily practices has helped.” —School Leader
- “How can we support our principals? It is about the children, but it is also about the staff who support the students and administrators who support the staff.” —Principal in Rhode Island
- “‘Unless something changes this week, I will be one of the 16% of principals leaving the job. Pray for us.’ Powerful words from a Florida school @NASSP leader.” —Principal in Massachusetts