From Burnout to Breakthrough: How One Teacher Transformed an Entire School District

What happens when an educator on the verge of leaving the profession discovers the tools to heal, reconnect, and lead with renewed purpose?In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Ilana Nankin sits down with educator and Director of Curriculum Beth Schreiber and Superintendent Jon Konen of Stevensville School District in Montana to explore how one educator’s personal transformation can create powerful ripple effects across an entire school system.Beth shares how severe burnout once left her questioning whether she could continue teaching. Through the practices she learned with Breathe for Change, she began caring for her own well-being, regulating stress, and creating a more connected classroom culture. The changes she experienced personally transformed her students' experience and eventually led her into district leadership, where she now helps shape the culture and learning experiences of educators and students across the district.Jon reflects on the profound impact Beth has had throughout Stevensville School District and why educator well-being, vulnerability, accountability, and relational trust are essential for building healthy school communities.Together, they offer a hopeful vision for education, one where educators fill their own cups first so they can help students, colleagues, and communities thrive.Best Moments in This EpisodeBeth's honest story of reaching the brink of burnoutThe Breathe for Change training that changed everythingClassroom practices that transformed student behavior and belongingHow Beth's personal growth led to district-wide leadership and impactThe power of nonviolent communication and restorative practicesA moving story of Beth's students supporting her through cancer treatmentWhat You’ll LearnWhy educator well-being is the foundation of effective teachingHow community and belonging reduce burnoutPractical classroom rituals that strengthen emotional safetyHow simple breathing and check-in practices improve learningWhy healthy school culture starts with vulnerable leadershipTools for navigating conflict with greater empathy and connectionHow one educator can influence an entire districtHIGHLIGHTS00:00 Episode Sneak Peek01:07 Introduction: Meet Beth Schreiber & John Canan04:22 The Reality of Teacher Burnout & The Sunday Scaries09:14 The Shift: Validating Shared Experience & Looking Inward15:10 Classroom Strategies: Breaths, Check-Ins, and Weather Reports21:23 From Classroom to District: Questioning Protocols & Human Intelligence29:09 Vulnerable Systems & Organizational Health36:14 Empowering Educators with Nonviolent Communication (NVC)41:21 The Dignity Index as a Self-Scoring Tool47:31 Navigating a Cancer Journey: The Power of a Wish Circle54:02 Closing Thoughts: Putting Your Oxygen Mask on FirstAbout Breathe for ChangeBreathe for Change empowers educators, school leaders, and changemakers with research-backed tools to enhance well-being, strengthen relationships, and transform teaching and learning.Through the accredited Master’s of Education in Human Intelligence, educators cultivate the skills needed to help students thrive while reconnecting with their own purpose and well-being.Learn MoreLearn more about the William Jewell College Master’s of Education in partnership with Breathe for Change and discover how to bring these practices into your classroom, career, and life.Connect With UsWebsite: breatheforchange.comInstagram: @breathe4change