Year

2026

Season

Spring

Paper Type

Doctoral Dissertation

College

Silverfield College of Education and Human Services

Degree Name

Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (EdD)

Department

Education

NACO controlled Corporate Body

University of North Florida. Department of Teaching, Learning and Curriculum

Committee Chairperson

Dr. Madalina Tanase

Second Advisor

Dr. Amanda Pascale

Rights Statement

http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/

Third Advisor

Dr. Rakesh Maurya

Fourth Advisor

Dr. Melissa Mauldin

Department Chair

C. Winterbottom

College Dean

S. Dittmore

Abstract

Abstract

Teacher attrition has been a major challenge in the United States for decades, but more so after covid. This case study explored and expanded the understanding of the different levels of environmental impact on high school teacher retention in a Florida high school as they evolved into career educators. The present study used Bronfenbrenner’s (1979) Ecological Systems Theory to examine the teacher’s retention in a county in northcentral Florida. In order to better understand the experience of career development, this study used Savickas’ Career Construction Theory (2019). This case study investigated strategies, supports, and diversity related initiatives impacting a teacher’s career story in relation to multiple environmental layers successfully connecting ecological systems and career construction. Researchers found that context influences a teacher's commitment to teaching by focusing on the student's needs, ignoring the "noise" of distractions, having a supportive environment, and feeling a part of the community culture. This study provided a voice for teachers, through an in-depth exploration of the different levels of ecologies in the school system by exploring individual stories of teachers and how they were impacted by the levels of ecologies around them.

Download

Share

COinS
 

Accessibility Statement

This item was created or digitized before April 24, 2027, or is a reproduction of legacy material created before that date. It is preserved in its original, unmodified state specifically for research, reference, or historical recordkeeping. In accordance with the ADA Title II Final Rule, the Library provides accessible versions of archival materials by request. If you are experiencing difficulty accessing the information on the site due to a disability, please submit a request through the following form for assistance.