Lived experiences of teachers who have undergone attrition in the new normal at a private school

Abstract

Teacher attrition presents a pressing issue for educational institutions, particularly in the new normal. This study delves into the lived experiences of teachers who faced attrition in a private school in Laguna, Philippines, aiming to understand the reasons behind their decision to leave the profession. Through a qualitative phenomenological approach, specifically, transcendental phenomenology, involving key informant interviews with seven former teachers, recurring themes were identified through thematic analysis. Three major themes emerged: (1) Balancing personal and professional realities, which encompasses managing commitments, coping with job demands, and addressing trauma and mental health challenges; (2) Resources and resilience, highlighting the importance of institutional support, compensation, recognition, and professional growth opportunities; (3) Decision dynamics in navigating attrition, involving personal factors, career aspirations, and reflections on the pandemic's impact. These findings underscore the complexity of challenges teachers face in the new normal. Addressing these challenges necessitates a holistic approach that supports teachers' well-being, provides necessary resources, and acknowledges the multifaceted factors influencing their decisions. By understanding and addressing these dynamics, educational institutions can work towards retaining skilled educators and fostering their growth amidst evolving challenges.