This conversation delves into the pressing issue of teacher shortages across the United States, exploring the underlying causes, the impact on teacher well-being, and strategies for recruitment and retention. The panel of educators and experts discusses the importance of understanding the context of the teacher shortage, the need for systemic change, and the significance of fostering supportive relationships among teachers. They emphasize that teachers are ordinary individuals facing extraordinary challenges, and advocate for a more realistic portrayal of the teaching profession.

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Paul Bruno is an assistant professor of education policy, organization and leadership in the College of Education at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He studies school staff labor markets, resource allocation in schools, and school personnel administration. He holds a Ph.D. in urban education policy and an MA in economics from the University of Southern California, as well as an MA in science and math education and a BA in philosophy and molecular and cell biology from the University of California, Berkeley. He previously taught middle school science in California.

Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth, JD, is an edtech consultant, presenter, attorney, author, and Spanish and STEAM: Emerging Technology teacher. Rachelle has a Juris Doctor degree from Duquesne University School of Law and a Doctorate in Instructional Technology. Rachelle specializes in Artificial Intelligence, AI and the Law, AI and the Environment, Cybersecurity, and STEM.

She is the author of ten books, including her most recent book, What the Tech?: An Educator’s Guide to AI, AR/VR, the Metaverse and More! and “How to Teach AI: Weaving Strategies and Activities Into Any Content Area.” She is also a frequent blogger for multiple publications. Contact Rachelle: bit.ly/thriveineduPD

Annette Ponnock, PhD is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Yale Center Emotional Intelligence. Dr. Ponnock’s research focuses on teacher motivation and well-being, with an emphasis on urban schools. She received her PhD in Educational Psychology from Temple University and her MA in Psychology from the University of Santa Monica.

Amir Taron Aryes is a curriculum supervisor at a charter school in Camden, New Jersey. He found his purpose in education over a decade ago. In addition to teaching history for five years, he held leadership roles in student discipline, academic counseling, after-school tutoring, and school programming. He approaches his work in education with a passion for students, families, and teachers from a perspective of empathy, understanding, and high expectations.

Robert Pondiscio is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute where he focuses on K–12 education, curriculum, teaching, school choice, and charter schooling. He is also a former New York City public school teacher and the author of many books, including How the Other Half Learns: Equality, Excellence, and the Battle over School Choice (Avery, 2019), about Success Academy Charter Schools.

Devon Beck is a dynamic leader and advocate for education, equity, and community development. His career spans multiple sectors, including education, community engagement, and the music business, where he has pioneered new roles to address organizational needs. A graduate of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Devon began his career in education, holding various roles such as Teacher’s Assistant, Behavior Specialist, Geometry/Algebra Teacher, Family & Student Liaison, and Pre-Referral Coordinator for the Talbot County Board of Education. Through these positions, he developed expertise in mentoring and supporting students who faced learning challenges. His work reinforced his belief that reaching students at critical stages in life can have a lasting impact.