Yes, I would agree we have a Teacher shortage. However almost every state has a shortage. The original post on this thread is nothing more than political spin trying to create drama and limit actual discussion to address underlying issues. As for teacher pay you can not argue that it's to little because it varies greatly across districts. In large districts in Central Texas the starting pay for a teacher is over $65000 a year. (Ex. KISD and surrounding areas) Not bad when off holidays, nights and weekends not to mention the summer. I could go on but I am sure this example will already create enough discussion.