Mentor Programs Should Reduce Teacher Shortage

Today, the words “teacher shortage” are far from foreign. Consequently, the Arizona K12 Center commits to working alongside the New Teacher Center to enhance mentor and induction programs in the state.

Last month, the New Teacher Center (NTC) published the graphic below, which showcases data about the current landscape of education. In doing so, the NTC provides five ways to combat the teacher shortage. The experts suggest that we:

• Create equity in education

• Give every educator a mentor or coach

• Offer commensurate teacher salaries

• Restore teacher autonomy to meet student needs

• Map clearing career paths for educators

In an effort to battle the teacher scarcity, the Arizona K12 Center continues to strengthen and grow the Arizona Master Teacher Program. Currently, applications are open for those seeking to be named Arizona K12 Center Master Teachers and Districts.

Beginning Oct. 19, the Arizona K12 Center will offer the Professional Learning Series: Year One for mentors looking to refine their skills. The four-part series, a teacher favorite, is designed for those supporting beginning teachers and content coaches. The training will focus on instructional mentoring, observation and conferencing, using data to inform instruction, and designing effective instruction based on learning needs of students. This is one of four ways the Arizona K12 Center is working to enhance mentor and induction programs throughout the state.

Join us as we aim to fight the teacher shortage in the United States. Learn more about the Arizona Master Teacher Program here.