Enhancing the Success of the Local Public High School and Students

Enhancing the Success of the Local Public High School and Students. Deirdre L. Schuster, 2025: Strategic Research Project, Nova Southeastern University, Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice. Keywords: advanced studies, charter schools, industry certification, magnet schools, mindfulness, school culture, student apathy, teacher burnout This strategic research project was designed to provide a systematic approach to finding gaps in the function of a local public high school to help school leaders maintain a competitive advantage in the district. The problem is a declining student population. Reviewing current scholarly literature indicated four solutions to increase student enrollment including increasing student engagement, decreasing teacher burnout, improving the magnet program, and improving school safety and sense of well-being. By addressing teacher burnout, the other issues can be addressed to improve the school reputation and compete with private and charter school options in the district. The most effective strategy identified is increasing time for planning and collaboration so teachers can address classroom demands, as well as additional job demands due to post COVID factors such as technology, mental health, and school safety. According to the action plan for the 2025-2026 school year, school leaders will create a committee of teachers and stakeholders to evaluate and modify the school day to provide additional planning time for teachers. Recommendations include streamlining administrative tasks so teachers can fulfill the school mission and vision of preparing students for successful future careers. Allowing experienced teachers to engage in mindfulness activities with novice teachers can prevent teacher burnout that can be transferred to students. Experienced teachers should also be utilized as trainers in professional development to build a positive school climate and ensure the sustainability of the school.