What can we do about Ohio’s teacher shortage?

The COVID-19 pandemic has placed additional stress on the primary and secondary educator workforce, leading to widespread reports of teacher shortages. Research suggests that these shortages particularly affected areas that were already struggling to recruit teachers, such as rural and urban districts, STEM subjects, and special education.

Part of the teacher shortage can be attributed to a pipeline issue. As this graph illustrates, the number of students enrolled in education programs has declined from its peak in 2004. However, districts similarly report difficulties retaining teachers due to burnout and other factors.

September’s issue brief explores the teacher shortage further, including how independents are supporting the educator workforce and what legislators can do to bolster this important profession.