EAST STROUDSBURG, MONROE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)— In the past decade, the number of certified teachers produced by Pennsylvania's education programs has fallen by 75%, and teacher turnover is at an all-time high.
Pennsylvania is facing a statewide teacher shortage with turnover rates at an all time high.
With the crisis continuing to grow, local leaders in education are pushing for change.
School district addresses sensory room closure rumorsState law makers, school administrators and student teachers gathered at East Stroudsburg University for a roundtable discussion hosted by #paneedsteachers, a statewide coalition led by teach plus and the national center on education and the economy.
There they discussed the shortfalls facing the system, and how they can fix them.
"We're seeing it in everything. Where there used to be 200 applications for an elementary position, there are now 10," said Dr. Brooke Langan, Dean, ESU College of Education.
Low wages for teachers, school safety and mental health are all issues contributing to Pennsylvania's teacher shortage.
Leaders in education say the stigma surrounding the profession also plays a big role.
"I think it also goes into society's view, the perception of teachers and the underappreciation that they are perceiving. When you perceive that a career is not appreciated, guess what it's one that you're not gonna choose to go into," explained Dr. Langan.
Solutions proposed include more mental health support for teachers, and fully funding the state's student teacher support program at $50 to $55 million dollars annually.
It currently sits at $20 million and provides stipends to student teachers who qualify.
Erin Mcardle is a senior at ESU wrapping up her student teaching. She received a stipend for her work.
"It's been very helpful being able to pay for gas every day, for groceries for lunches and things like that and also for some activities to do in school," said Mcardle.
If the program is fully funded, it would allow every student teacher, and the teacher that mentors them to get a stipend.
Students we spoke with say they believe this could make a big difference.
"I think that would attract a ton of kids, and I know that some people don't get into teaching for the sole purpose of hey, I don't like the financial situation that comes with it," stated Francesco Curto, student teacher.
In his budget, Governor Josh Shapiro is proposing bringing the total amount of the student teacher support program to $40 million annually.