Teaching Expertise

In the past few years, the teacher shortage has reached critical levels. According to recent surveys, about 30% of teachers plan to leave their jobs in the next year, and 40% of those are considering leaving education altogether. Even more shocking is that only 16% of educators would strongly recommend the profession to others. This isn’t just a temporary problem; it’s a crisis that threatens the future of education. Teachers are burned out, undervalued, and overwhelmed by growing demands.

The question is: What needs to change? What will it take to stop the mass exodus from education and create an environment where teachers want to stay and thrive? 

Below are the key areas that need urgent reform if we want to stop the teacher shortage and rebuild a sustainable, respected profession.

1. Increase Teacher Pay to Reflect Professional Demands

One of the most pressing issues in education is low pay. Teachers are professionals, yet their salaries often don’t reflect the immense responsibilities they bear. Research shows that inadequate pay is one of the top reasons teachers leave the profession. In many cases, educators work second jobs or struggle to make ends meet, all while managing classrooms and fostering the growth of the next generation.

“Agree, agree, agree! I just wish it would really happen!”

Teachers are exhausted by promises of reform that never materialize. It’s time for schools and districts to take action and pay teachers a salary that matches their expertise and the ever-increasing responsibilities placed on them. Without competitive pay, the teacher shortage will continue to grow, leaving schools scrambling to fill vacancies.

2. Reduce Class Sizes for More Effective Teaching

Overcrowded classrooms are a huge barrier to effective teaching and learning. Large class sizes make it difficult for teachers to provide individualized attention, and students are more likely to fall behind. On the other hand, smaller class sizes lead to better academic outcomes and improved student engagement.

Many teachers are of the same sentiment. “YES to ALL of this!!!” Reducing class sizes would go a long way toward solving some of the biggest challenges teachers face. It would allow for more effective teaching and create a more manageable, supportive environment for both students and educators.

3. Restore Trust by Ending Micromanagement

Micromanagement is a key contributor to teacher burnout. Teachers are bogged down with endless paperwork, restrictive policies, and constant oversight, leaving little room for creativity or autonomy in their classrooms. Instead of focusing on teaching, educators are often tied up with administrative tasks that serve little purpose in improving student outcomes.

In Finland, teachers enjoy a level of autonomy that allows them to design their own lessons and adapt their teaching methods based on their students’ needs. The result? Finland consistently ranks among the highest in global education standards. Teachers know their students best—trust them to make decisions in the classroom.

“AMEN!! These are so accurate about what is needed in education.”, as what most teachers exclaimed. Teachers are professionals, and they deserve to be treated as such. Restoring autonomy is key to retaining talented educators.

4. Implement Stronger Mental Health Support for Teachers and Students

Mental health issues are taking a toll on both teachers and students alike. A growing number of schools are reporting increased stress, anxiety, and mental health concerns among their staff and students. Teachers are not only managing their own mental health but are also expected to support students through these challenges, often without adequate resources or training.

In some forward-thinking districts, schools have introduced wellness programs, mental health days, and access to on-site counselors for both staff and students. These programs have had a positive impact on overall school morale and productivity, reducing teacher burnout and helping students succeed.

“Agree 100%, happy to be retired!” The emotional toll on educators is real, and without proper mental health support, we risk losing even more teachers to burnout and stress.

5. Address Absenteeism Before It Gets Worse

Post-pandemic, absenteeism has reached critical levels. Students are missing school more than ever before, and teachers are struggling to engage those who are frequently absent. When students miss too many days, they fall behind academically, and teachers face the impossible task of trying to catch them up while still managing the rest of the class.

Some districts are taking proactive measures to combat absenteeism by implementing attendance incentives and outreach programs. For example, a district in California saw a 10% improvement in attendance after partnering with local organizations to provide resources for students at risk of chronic absenteeism.

“These are all wonderful ideas! I will be surprised if any happen.” Teachers want to see action on this issue, but many are skeptical that schools will act quickly enough to make a real difference.

6. Strengthen Cell Phone Policies in the Classroom

Cell phones are one of the biggest distractions in today’s classrooms. Teachers report that students are disengaged because they’re too busy texting, scrolling through social media, or watching videos during lessons. While technology can be an asset in education, cell phones often hinder the learning process when not properly managed.

A middle school in New York implemented a “no cell phone during class” policy and saw a marked improvement in student focus and classroom engagement. Teachers were able to regain control of their classrooms and students benefited from fewer distractions.

“100% THIS!” Teachers are calling for stricter policies that prioritize learning over screen time. Stronger cell phone policies will help create a more focused and productive classroom environment.

7. Retain Experienced Teachers Before They Leave

The teacher shortage isn’t just affecting new teachers—it’s driving out veteran educators who are burned out and retiring early. These seasoned teachers bring invaluable experience and mentorship to the profession, and their departure leaves a significant gap in schools.

In one district in Texas, an innovative mentorship program pairs experienced teachers with new hires, providing support, guidance, and reduced workloads for veteran educators. This approach has helped retain experienced teachers who might have otherwise left the profession.

“I have 5 more years until I retire! I’m ready!” Schools need to take action now to keep experienced teachers from leaving, ensuring that their knowledge and expertise continue to benefit the next generation of educators.

Conclusion:

The teacher shortage isn’t just a statistic—it’s a growing crisis that impacts the future of education. If we want to stop this mass exodus, we need to make real, systemic changes. Competitive pay, smaller class sizes, more autonomy, and stronger mental health support are just a few of the necessary reforms that can retain the talented teachers we have and attract new ones to the profession.