Chapter 4: Understanding Principal’s Well-Being and Leadership Practices During the Pandemic in a Small School in Rural Manitoba, Canada

This narrative offers a story of one principal in a small school in rural Manitoba, Canada that shows the antecedents, effects, and other factors relevant to principal well-being and leadership during and following the COVID-19 pandemic. This narrative has theoretical and practical significance in education administration, in particular for crisis management. In December 2022, Ms. Lau (pseudonym) shared her experience as she led the school community at Johnson School (pseudonym) from the beginning of the pandemic in March 2020. As a first-time school principal, Ms. Lau reflected on the additional challenges presented by the pandemic and highlights strategies that were effective in supporting herself, her staff, the students, and their families throughout and following the pandemic. Key findings include the importance of relationships, communication, and leadership during a time of crisis.