Pushing Through Academic Legacy, Generativity in the Narratives of Retired Educators: Basis for Proposed Future Productivity Plan

This study examined the experiences of retired school leaders who transitioned to new leadership roles after retirement. Participants who held significant pre-retirement positions within the educational sector, were analyzed across diverse age groups (range: 60-65 years). Motivations for continued leadership engagement were influenced by personal, financial, and systemic factors. Pre-retirement leadership styles varied, with post-retirement endeavors marked by resilience and adaptability. Key findings revealed: (1) Post-retirement leadership emphasized transformative and democratic values, highlighting continuous improvement, kindness, and fairness. (2) Retirees pursued diverse aspirations, including entrepreneurship, community engagement, and ongoing educational leadership. Sustaining professional contributions relied on strategies for health management, technology utilization, and relationship cultivation. (3) Retirees demonstrated a proactive and passionate approach to post-retirement endeavors, prioritizing productivity, creativity, and legacy creation. This commitment manifested in initiatives focused on nurturing leadership potential, fostering community engagement, enhancing research skills, showcasing successful leadership models, and mentoring students. The study underscored the significant contributions retired school leaders continue to make, informing discussions on retirement policies and support mechanisms within the educational sector.