Teaching, for instance, was once considered a woman's profession. Many women pursued careers in education simply because they had few other opportunities. But today other doors have opened to young women. Meantime, amid low unemployment and dynamic growth in high-tech sectors, business is snapping up young graduates with math or science majors, aggravating teacher shortages in those subjects. In addition, attrition rates among younger teachers are extraordinarily high.
Teachers often cite working conditions as a bigger concern than money.
This is particularly true in big cities, where new teachers are assigned the toughest classes, often with little support or guidance. Nationwide, more than 20 percent of new teachers quit within the first three years. Mr. Riley said last year. He has encouraged school districts to establish mentoring and other programs to help inexperienced teachers. Shortages are particularly acute in certain subject areas.