School & District Management Video

How This Principal Protects Her Teachers’ Work-Life Balance

By Lauren Santucci — September 11, 2024 4:12
Illustration of a diverse woman on a teeter board with a clock in one hand and a compass in the other.

School leaders play a significant role in establishing the work-life balance of the educators who report to them.

From protecting teachers’ prep periods to keeping their course loads realistic, Ashley McCann-Markham, a high school principal in Peck, Mich., gives careful consideration to any decision that could get in the way of her team’s ability to finish work during staff members’ contract hours.

Here, she shares suggestions for other school and district leaders looking to do the same.

Lauren Santucci was a video producer for Education Week.

Video

School Choice & Charters Video Private School Choice Is Growing. What Comes Next?
States are investing billions of dollars in public funds for families to use on private schooling.
1 min read
Reading & Literacy Video Why One School Is Leading the Return to Cursive
Georgia has joined 20-plus states returning cursive handwriting to elementary school classrooms.
Artificial Intelligence Video Is AI Good or Bad for Schools?
A growing number of educators are experimenting with generative AI. The challenge now is to share those lessons learned and best practices.
1 min read
School & District Management Video Meet the 2026 Superintendent of the Year
A Texas schools chief says his leadership is inspired by his own difficulties in school.
Superintendent Roosevelt Nivens speaks after being announced as AASA National Superintendent of the Year in Nashville, Tenn. on Feb. 12, 2026.
Superintendent Roosevelt Nivens speaks after being announced as AASA National Superintendent of the Year in Nashville, Tenn. on Feb. 12, 2026.
Kaylee Domzalski/Education Week