When Excellence Becomes a Burden: A Quiet Problem in Education
There is something I have observed repeatedly in schools, and once you see it, you can’t unsee it. When an employee shows exceptional ability... works faster, delivers better results, solves problems without supervision... the system responds in a predictable way: They get more work! Not more pay. Not a clearer role. Not better support. Just more work. How the Cycle Begins It usually starts innocently. An employer notices that one staff member: executes tasks excellently, understands systems quickly, needs little supervision, and “gets things done.” Instead of asking, “What role is missing here?” or * “Who else needs training?” the employer asks, “What else can this person handle?” Before long: - tasks meant for two or three people sit on one desk, - new roles are silently absorbed, - and no new staff is hired. The employer is happy. The work is getting done. But underneath the surface, something unhealthy i...