School leaders have faced unimaginable challenges over the past two years. In addition to dealing with health concerns due to the pandemic, many districts have seen an unprecedented fragmentation of their communities over the political ramifications involved. The old maxim “damned if you do, damned if you don’t” seems an apt description of school leaders’ inability to please either side, no matter what steps are or are not taken. Parents and other constituents on both sides are frustrated and angry, and educators often bear the brunt of this resentment and rage. And that’s one reason that principals and teachers are leaving the profession in record numbers.

So how should a caring educator respond? One of the most important steps is focusing on your own mental health. It’s difficult to help others when you yourself are struggling.

In this article, one superintendent shares the four-step process that he used to step back from his breaking point. The concepts outlined apply not only to superintendents and principals, but also classroom teachers, counselors, and coaches.

It’s well worth a read … and definitely worth sharing!