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Publication Date

2004

Abstract

The shortage of science and mathematics teachers is a growing problem in the United States. This article looks at what research says about the causes for the growing teacher shortage and its effects on student achievement. As the teacher shortage worsens, teachers without a science or mathematics backgrounds are tasked to teach science and mathematics or underqualified teachers are being hired to fill the shortage. These underqualified teachers are not remaining in the profession, thus not solving the teacher shortage problem and creating an even higher turnover rate for teachers. In addition, experienced teachers are leaving the profession in greater numbers due to low salaries and job dissatisfaction. Research indicates that the initial preparation and support of teachers as they enter the profession is critical to surviving the beginning years and remaining in the profession. Additionally, well-prepared teachers have the largest impact on effective classroom practice and high student achievement.

Volume

7

Issue

1

First Page

85

Last Page

96

Rights

© Virginia Mathematics and Science Coalition, licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0) (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

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