Effective implementation of change remains a crucial concern for educational leaders in the 21st Century. One of the factors affecting effective implementation of reform is resistance to change. Veteran teachers in particular present unique challenges, and stereotypically the greatest resistance, for effective implementation of change. This study provided voice to veteran teachers to help educational leaders gain insight for more effective engagement with resistance. Veteran teachers frequently act in ways that protect their "psychic rewards" (Lortie, 1975). Veteran teachers also strive to protect social nostalgia and political nostalgia (Goodson, Moore, & Hargreaves, 2006). Understanding the complexity of resistance among veteran teachers validates their mission and memory (Goodson et al., 2006) while strengthening the implementation of initiatives at the local level (Fullan, 2016; Fullan & Hargreaves, 1996).