Truth Summary
Contrary to popular opinion, (teacher shortage) is not an Indiana problem only. Across the country, school districts are facing teacher shortages. Some of this is due to the fact that a few years ago, districts laid off teachers as they faced serious budget shortfalls. As the economy recovered, and tax revenue returned somewhat to normal, money became available to hire, but potential education students continued to make decisions about what careers to pursue based on the reality of a few years ago.
We’re also seeing large numbers of baby boomers retire, including many teachers. That’s a recruitment and retention challenge driven by demographic reality — the boomers are getting old — not education reform.
