Shortage Blamed on Retention Problem

The teacher shortage problem is really a teacher retention problem, according to a new study.

The National Commission on Teaching and America’s Future found that one-third of new teachers leave the profession within three years, and almost one-half leave within five years.

“The ability to create and maintain a quality teaching and learning environment in a school is limited not by teacher supply, but by high turnover among the teachers who are already there - turnover that is only aggravated by hiring unqualified and underprepared replacements who leave teaching at very high rates,” according to “No Dream Denied: A Pledge to America’s Children.”

The study recommends strong teacher preparation programs and support systems to encourage people to remain in the teaching profession.

Posted January 31, 2003