Brenna Woods | Real Strategies to Prevent Burnout and Keep Teachers in Classrooms

Brenna Woods

Educator burnout continues to be one of the top reasons for teacher attrition. Brenna Woods, an experienced assistant principal focused on staff well-being and equity, stresses that schools must go beyond surface-level solutions to make lasting change. Quick fixes won’t solve a systemic issue.

Retention begins with practical workload support. Teachers need fewer administrative tasks, clearer expectations, and more time to plan and connect with students. When instructional time is protected and demands are streamlined, educators are far more likely to remain engaged and effective in their roles.

Positive school culture also plays a vital role. Staff who feel respected, acknowledged, and emotionally safe report higher job satisfaction. Leadership can build this culture by offering consistent recognition, addressing conflict constructively, and ensuring staff wellness isn’t treated as an afterthought.

Brenna Woods points out that policy alignment matters, too. If district goals ignore human capacity, burnout becomes inevitable. School leaders must advocate for conditions that align teacher performance with realistic expectations and personal sustainability.

By confronting burnout as a structural issue, not just an emotional one, schools can increase teacher retention and elevate the entire learning environment. For Brenna Woods, that shift starts with courageous, human-centered leadership.