Tackling Teacher Shortages
Jay Reeves/AP/File
This ongoing series examines both overlooked challenges and promising solutions to staffing issues facing American schools. The series is part of an eight-newsroom collaboration between AL.com, The Associated Press, The Christian Science Monitor, The Dallas Morning news, The Fresno Bee, The Hechinger Report, The Seattle Times, and The Post and Courier in Charleston, South Carolina, with support from the Solutions Journalism Network.
Monitor stories
FocusMore cash, fewer requirements: States scramble for teachersAt the heart of the struggle to retain and attract teachers is restoring a sense of dignity to the profession. Beneath political finger-pointing, that goal is shared by a wide swath of Americans.
How the 1954 Brown decision still influences today’s teaching ranksWhat historical patterns have influenced the need for diverse teachers today? The author of a recent book addresses myths and solutions.
Collaboration partners
First LookUS teacher shortages stem from low unemployment, stiff competitionTeacher shortages in the U.S. are related more to hiring, especially for non-teaching staff positions, than a shortage of educators. As kids return to school, newly created positions are left vacant due to low unemployment and stiff competition.
Where will new teachers come from? Community colleges offer a path.With demand for teachers in some areas outpacing supply, more community colleges are stepping in. In Washington state, for example, efforts include institutions working together to offer degrees.
First LookUncertified teacher numbers spike as schools work to stem shortagesAs districts in the South and elsewhere face staff shortages, many are looking to ease job requirements. Schools are often left with the choice between uncertified candidates or crowded classrooms.
In Alabama, a teaching experiment aims to help English learners succeedAn Alabama district is using pandemic funds to hire temporary staff to support English learners – and to show state legislators that with the right support, learning gains are possible.
