Thus, there is some reason to hope for more rational testing policies. Every student deserves a well-trained, competent and caring teacher. Unfortunately, the prolonged and worsening teacher shortage is making such a goal increasingly elusive. Policymakers have been responding to the shortage with a variety of quick fix policies and programs such as intensified recruiting, signing bonuses and increased salaries for new teachers. These efforts will be insufficient because they do not address the root causes of the shortage.
Attrition is a major cause of the teacher shortage.
Approximately 25 percent of beginning teachers leave the profession within three years and many experienced teachers leave before they become eligible for retirement. The primary reason for the attrition is that the teaching profession is seen as increasingly unattractive by beginning and experienced teachers. Teachers are frustrated by inadequate compensation, poor facilities, overcrowded classrooms, insufficient supplies, lack of support staff, excessive paperwork, disruptive students, lack of administrative and parental support, high-stakes testing and a lack of professional autonomy. The teacher shortage will not end until the teaching profession becomes more financially and psychologically rewarding. Our common public school system has contributed significantly to the strength of our nation.