THE RIPPLE EFFECT: HOW TEACHER WELL – BEING MEDIATES THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SCHOOL CLIMATE AND STUDENT ENGAGEMENT IN THE CONTEXT OF STAFFING SHORTAGES
THE RIPPLE EFFECT: HOW TEACHER WELL – BEING MEDIATES THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SCHOOL CLIMATE AND STUDENT ENGAGEMENT IN THE CONTEXT OF STAFFING SHORTAGES

Author(s): Cristian PANAIT
Subject(s): Social Sciences, Education, Pedagogy
Published by: Carol I National Defence University Publishing House
Keywords: teacher well-being; burnout, school climate; student engagement; staffing shortages; workload; mediation.
Summary/Abstract: The interplay between school climate, teacher well-being, and student engagement is fundamental to educational success. Yet, this crucial ecosystem faces significant disruption from growing systemic challenges, particularly staffing shortages that intensify teacher workloads. Previous research extensively documents the negative impacts of teacher burnout characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and diminished personal accomplishment on educational outcomes. However, less attention has been given to explicitly examining how teacher well-being mediates the relationship between school climate and student engagement specifically within the context of staffing shortages. This conceptual synthesis addresses this gap by exploring how increased workloads disrupt the positive influence of supportive school climates. Drawing on recent literature, this essay argues that teacher well-being acts as a critical conduit, transmitting the effects of the school environment to student outcomes. Clarifying this "ripple effect" provides essential insights for developing targeted policies and practical interventions to support educators facing staffing pressures, ultimately ensuring sustained student engagement and academic success.

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