ISBE launches recruitment campaign to address teacher shortage

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) – Schools across Illinois have been experiencing a critical shortage of teaching staff. To help fill the gaps, the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) launched a $6 million recruitment campaign.

The campaign, called “ The Answer is Teaching ,” officially kicked off on July 1 using federal relief funds. It has since accumulated more than 1,750 inquiries from potential teachers.

“Teachers are the single most important investment we can make in our schools,” Governor JB Pritzker said. “That’s why ISBE’s ‘The Answer is Teaching’ campaign is building a bicultural and bilingual teacher pipeline, and empowering potential educators to join classrooms across the state. I encourage anyone who wants to learn what it takes to become an educator to visit the campaign’s website.”

The shortages have hit bilingual and special education particularly hard. According to ISBE’s latest annual Unfilled Positions Data , one third of Illinois’ 4,000 teacher vacancies were in special education.

The Illinois Association of Regional Superintendents also released survey results that said more than 90% of schools in the state reported having teacher shortages in the past school year.

“Teachers are the cornerstone of our education system. A great teacher can change the course of a student’s life and have a positive impact on their entire community,” said State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders. “It’s a great time to be a teacher in Illinois. We offer teachers competitive pay and benefits, a strong community, and the freedom to develop their curriculum. Our goal with this recruitment campaign is both to fill essential teaching positions and also to celebrate the profound impact teachers have on students’ lives.”

“The Answer is Teaching” tries to connect with prospective teachers through digital platforms, community/educational partnerships, and targeted ads that will run through Jan. 2025. Current teachers also share their most rewarding experiences and stories. Materials are presented in both English and Spanish to make the opportunity as accessible as possible.

On top of the recruitment campaign, Illinois also put in $45 million for Teacher Vacancy Grants. ISBE provides apprentice and mentorship programs, expedited pathways , and professional development opportunities to educators.

For more information, visit www.BecomeATeacher.com .

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