The supply and demand forces for teachers in Texas vary from year to year. Depending on market and economic forces, a shortage or oversupply of teachers occurs from time to time. It is a natural cycle that usually follows the economic stability in the economy.

Teacher Shortage

In response to a teacher shortage in urban/rural areas and in critical need areas, lawmakers came up with an innovative way to lessen the problem. Alternative teacher certification was developed to give individuals a chance to have paid teaching positions as they finished up their requirements for teacher certification. Alternative teacher certification was first initiated in Texas and has spread throughout the nation.

Factors leading to a shortage

1) Increased funding from the legislature

2) Robust economy – teachers leaving for higher paying jobs in other industries

3) Legislature decreasing class sizes and/or certification requirements

4) Aging workforce

5) Increased testing requirements for teachers entering the field

Teacher Oversupply

A teacher oversupply can be found usually during an economic downturn or when the legislature cuts education funding. The most recent example of teacher oversupply was during the 2010-2011 school year. Due to the severe recession in 2008-2009, the Texas legislature was forced to cut funding to schools. Usually a funding cut to school is brief and will recover within 1-2 years.

Factors leading to an oversupply

1) Decreased funding from legislature

2) Poor economy – laid off workers entering education field

3) Reduce certification requirements for critical need area

4) Reduced enrollment in districts

5) Low enrollment of children in schools