Teacher Recruitment, Retention, and Shortages Resources

July 6, 2026 | The latest state-reported data show 425,400-plus teaching positions are either unfilled or filled by teachers without full certification, making up roughly 1 in 8 positions nationwide. Because of variations in state policies, the severity of shortages and access to well-qualified teachers differ greatly from state to state.

June 30, 2026 | California's teacher shortage crisis has tripled the number of teachers practicing with substandard credentials since 2012–13, disproportionately impacting students of color and low-income communities. While recent state investments have increased well-prepared teachers significantly, many programs are sunsetting. Sustained, coordinated policy action is needed to stabilize the state’s workforce.

June 22, 2026 | California’s investment in teacher residencies has led to the recruitment and retention of a racially and ethnically diverse teacher workforce with higher passing rates on the state assessment and higher entry rates into the profession than other preparation pathways. Through residencies, candidates receive financial support and year-long guidance from a mentor in the classroom, while completing coursework.

May 7, 2026 | California's teacher shortage crisis has tripled the number of teachers practicing with substandard credentials since 2012–13, disproportionately impacting students of color and low-income communities. While recent state investments have increased well-prepared teachers significantly, many programs are sunsetting. Sustained, coordinated policy action is needed to stabilize the state’s workforce.

March 17, 2026 | The most recent data from NCES’ national teacher and principal surveys highlight persistently high teacher turnover and widespread dissatisfaction. The data also point to strategies for decreasing turnover, including competitive salaries, effective school leadership, improved working conditions, and supports for early-career teachers.

March 17, 2026 | The most recent data from NCES’ national teacher and principal surveys highlight persistently high teacher turnover and widespread dissatisfaction. The data also point to strategies for decreasing turnover, including competitive salaries, effective school leadership, improved working conditions, and supports for early-career teachers.

March 17, 2026 | The most recent data from NCES’ national teacher and principal surveys highlight persistently high teacher turnover and widespread dissatisfaction. The data also point to strategies for decreasing turnover, including competitive salaries, effective school leadership, improved working conditions, and supports for early-career teachers.

December 1, 2025 | A diverse teacher workforce is vital to student achievement and school climate, yet only about 20% of U.S. teachers are people of color. Barriers for teachers of color include limited access to comprehensive preparation, lower pay, higher debt, and less supportive working conditions. Research sheds light on conditions that foster retention.

December 1, 2025 | A diverse teacher workforce is vital to student achievement and school climate, yet only about 20% of U.S. teachers are people of color. Barriers for teachers of color include limited access to comprehensive preparation, lower pay, higher debt, and less supportive working conditions. Research sheds light on conditions that foster retention.

November 20, 2025 | Designed to address California’s educator shortages and offset preparation costs, the Golden State Teacher Grant provides financial support to aspiring educators in exchange for a commitment to serve in a high-need school or preschool. An analysis of the program's first 5 years reviews statewide participation and grant recipients’ perceptions of the program.