The U.S. education system is embattled by teacher shortage. A group called Teachers of Tomorrow is hoping that industry leaders will soon be able to solve the problem.
But realistic solutions to curb teacher shortage cannot be done by one entity. In its thrust to help education leaders, Teachers of Tomorrow did studies and talked with experts to share potential solutions.
For special education in America, there is a shortage of at least 84 percent. Teachers capable in Science and Math also have a high percentage of teacher shortage at 75 percent and 78 percent, respectively, according to a recent report from the U.S. Department of Education (DOE).
The prevailing problem contributes to the decline in quality of education the students receive. Unfortunately, this has already reflected in recent tests where America placed 24th among the world in the 2015 Program for International Student Assessment (PISA), according to Teachers of Tomorrow. The infographic below breaks down the particulars.
In talking with experts, the group has generated potential solutions to the teacher shortage problem. Raising wages is the most common idea, but the experts have more.
"We need to give teachers the autonomy they need to bring education to the next level," Google education evangelist Jamie Casap told the group in a separate report on their official site. He is for allowing teachers "room to iterate and experiment."
Joy Pullman of The Federalist suggests the removal of teachers' licensing and instead have institutions hire based on qualifications. Bellwether Education principal Chad Alderman wants better education policies in place. He says it should be specific to areas that are particularly short on teachers and not a blanket policy for all of America.
"More on high-value instruction (mentoring, coaching, small group facilitation)," AEI director Rick Hess suggests. "Nothing demoralizes a teacher like following a scripted lesson plan such as an engaging module," Fordham University professor Nick Tampio said, adding teachers should be allowed to explore their capabilities.
It would be great to hear ideas and suggestions from a parents' point of view. Care to share some, parents? Sound off in the comments below!
