Subcommittee Holds Hearing on Innovative Teacher Preparation

Concerned about the enduring teacher shortage, the House Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education held a hearing on September 25th to discuss innovative ways to address the problem. For example, in the 2023-24 school year, 86% of schools reported difficulty in hiring teachers.

Mr. Sharif El-Mekki, CEO, Center for Black Educator Development, highlighted the critical need for educator diversity and the intersectionality of race, ethnicity, and disability that impacts students with disabilities. Teacher shortages significantly affect these students at a greater number than the population in general. He cites that, “According to recent studies, special education teachers of color are leaving the classroom at higher rates due to systemic challenges and a lack of support. This shortage exacerbates the disparities faced by students with disabilities in marginalized communities, highlighting the urgent need to address this issue.” In closing, Subcommittee Chair Aaron Bean (R-FL) acknowledged that shortages are persistent and alarming, but also solvable through innovative strategies to prepare and retain educators.