Many schools in the United States and Michigan—especially those in high-need areas like special education and STEM—are struggling to fill open positions with qualified educators. In response to these challenges, the U.S. Department of Education has launched a new federal center aimed at studying and improving teacher recruitment and retention across the country.
This new center, led by CALDER (the Center for Analysis of Longitudinal Data in Education Research) is focused on addressing the root causes of teacher shortages. Its research examines teacher shortages in specific subject areas, schools, and communities—particularly those serving historically marginalized groups. The center will study various recruitment and retention policies across nine states, including Michigan, using data to understand which strategies are most effective in addressing shortages.
OPTIMISE is helping to attract and prepare qualified special educators across the state. They created a one-stop website with career path information, financial resources and additional support information.
Source: Education Week
About OPTIMISE
OPTIMISE attracts, prepares, and retains diverse and qualified personnel to help advance individuals with disabilities (Birth to 26 years).
The OPTIMISE Task Force, Core Team, and Action Teams work with many partners, including Michigan’s leading education organizations and legislature, to reduce barriers and align licensing for special educators. This work also includes working with all levels of education to accomplish this goal.
OPTIMISE promotes ten professions within Michigan’s special education field, their funding options, and steps to jumpstart a career in special education.
Join a great group of dedicated people who help individuals with disabilities excel.
Go to: OPTIMISE.education
