Resilience strategies for new teachers in high-needs areas

This qualitative study investigates strategies of resilience exhibited by fifteen novice teachers employed in high-needs areas, such as in urban and rural contexts and in special education. Findings indicated that teachers utilised a variety of strategies, including help-seeking, problem-solving, managing difficult relationships, and seeking rejuvenation/renewal. These strategies assisted beginning teachers in building additional resources and support: however, the burden for success and securing resources fell on teachers themselves. Furthermore, the researchers recognised that resilient teachers demonstrated agency in the process of overcoming adversity. Implications for future practice and research are discussed. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.