Katchia Gethers: In the Business of Getting Better

This field-based case uses the challenges an elementary school principal encountered during her first year as a seasoned professional in an underperforming school to set the stage for unfolding a framework on cultures, situations, and selves. The material also reveals elements of burnout, racism, and interpersonal and structural problems. The case allows an exploration of managers unconsciously placing greater expectations on high-performing women employees of color. The case opens with Katchia Gethers, a Black female principal of the second-largest school district in South Carolina, questioning whether to continue or leave. Pushback from some inside the school, critiques from individuals who want to keep Gethers in line with their views, and anonymous online attacks have left her questioning her own leadership. But Gethers has made a difference-the underperforming school showed signs of academic improvement. A strong circle of supporters among those she reports to and those who report to her encourage her to continue. This case would be suitable for MBA and undergraduate courses in organizational behavior or ethics. It could be used at the end of the module about developing self-awareness or about belonging and inclusion. This case can also be used to teach students about managing stakeholders with different interests and goals. The material touches on everything to which effective managers should pay closer attention throughout their careers.

• Teaching and educational design
• Diversity and inclusion
• Race
• Gender
• Labor
• Burnout