Shifting Inward During a Storm

Ethical Educator

Scenario:

During a school visit in November, the superintendent feels a tug on her sleeve. It is the dedicated school psychologist, who explains she has been adversely affected by fallout from the pandemic and wants to take a leave of absence to become a stay-at-home parent for remainder of the school year. Clearly, she feels guilt shifting her focus inward, knowing there’s a skyrocketing number of students with mental health needs and dearth of providers able to fill her role. She asks: “Is it OK to leave my position, out of choice and not necessity, during this especially turbulent time?”

How should the superintendent respond?