Research shows American teachers are leaving their professions at an alarming rate due to the overwhelming responsibilities they encounter in their classrooms. The training they receive in higher education institutions should fit their needs through challenging, innovative, and resourceful exercises. This dissertation examines the status of American teachers, as well as how student teachers are trained for professional careers. This research study reveals how one group of teachers were affected and influenced by participating in a positive reflective message board. Recommendations are provided for improving pre-service teacher preparatory programs including coping strategies that can be easily implemented by classroom teachers. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]