I find it the question of how to recruit new teachers to be a difficult one to answer. We had three very talented student interns in our school this past year. They were some of the best young teachers that I have seen. They had strong content knowledge, a great rapport with the students, and great enthusiasm for teaching. They were eager to learn and take suggestions.
As department chairman, I wanted to consider each of them for an opening that we had for next year. Unfortunately, we could not even consider interviewing these bright new teachers because teachers were surplussed in our district because of budget concerns. Of course, it is only fair to place tenured teachers in openings first, but what does that say to new prospective teachers. They are waiting and worrying that they will not find a job. What happens when the waiting becomes too much? Will the smart and talented young people choose a different path?
This is somewhat encouraging…at least I know I am not alone…