In addition, more than 50 percent of teachers quit within their first five years in the classroom. .
6. Class-size reduction measures and pending retirements will cause California to need between 250,000 and 300,000 new teachers by 2008 (the state presently employs 283,000 teachers). California's problem is indicative of the shortage facing states nationwide.
7. By the fall of 2000, New York State has decreed that the worst performing schools will not be allowed to employ any new teachers with temporary licenses. The employment of teachers on emergency credentials will be outlawed completely by 2003. Other states are exploring similar policies.
8. The unemployment rate has reached an all time low (4 percent). An abundance of less stressful and better paying careers await people with specialized knowledge and college degrees. .
9. By 2010 42 percent of the nation's teachers (2.5 million) will retire or resign from the profession.
These facts reflect a system that has been unable, and at times, unwilling to address the needs of teachers. In turn, teaching professionals have responded by leaving the profession in staggering numbers. The profession no longer holds the appeal it once did. Teachers feel neglected and disrespected. A job that has traditionally been extremely rewarding is now burdened with stresses and expectations that far exceed new teacher's preparedness. Although the shortage will be most acute between 2005 and 2010, when one million of the three million educators in this country become eligible for retirement, the situation is already critical in many states. It is imperative that leaders and communities take immediate measures to address the concerns of educators across the country. .
Teacher pay has been amongst the most significant factors that lead 30 percent of teachers to leave the profession in the first five years. Close examination and prompt attention is necessary if states intend on retaining skilled and talented teaching professionals.