Indiana Takes on Teacher Shortage
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowTwo new websites from the Indiana Department of Education are aimed at attracting and retaining teachers. Chief Talent Officer Scott Syverson says the effort creates a "one-stop shop" for jobs and resources for those currently in or considering entering the profession. The department says the sites will not only help with attraction and retention, it will also highlight how valued educators are in the state.
The teacher shortage, Syverson says, is being felt statewide. "Especially in rural areas, where — you know, some jobs — they’ll post a physics position and it’ll be posted for months before they get a good candidate," he said. "It’s really vital that we do everything we can as a department to try to support their efforts in getting good teachers in the classroom."
EducateIN.org is described by the IDOE as a resource hub for benefits of becoming a teacher and the licensure pathways for prospective teachers. Another purpose for the site is "reframing the public narrative and increasing the positive perception of educators and the teaching experience in Indiana," an IDOE release said.
Indiana.Teachers-Teachers.com is a nationally-reaching job search site for employers and job seekers. The department adds it will examine data and reports from the site to develop future resources and training.
Indiana Superintendent of Public Instruction Jennifer McCormick says "working to attract and retain excellent teachers for Indiana schools is a commitment of the Department. I believe these resources will advance our initiative and I am excited to make them available."