Scherer to Continue to Address Teacher Shortage, Education Gaps as Chair of Key House Education Committee

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Sue Scherer, D-Decatur, will bring her decades of experience in the classroom and as a leader in education policy to discussions about strengthening Illinois’ public schools, retaining teachers and uplifting the needs of students and parents as chair of the House Elementary and Secondary Education: Administration, Licensing and Charter Schools Committee.

“I’m excited to examine the policies currently governing our classrooms, and look for innovative steps we can take to cut red tape, certify educators and get them teaching as quickly as possible,” said Scherer. “Having spent nearly 30 years in our local classrooms, I’ve seen how state policies can help educators and students succeed, and I’ve seen how it can hold them back. We must be open to reviewing these, and focus on what works for our students.”

Since 2019, Scherer has served as Elementary and Secondary Education: Administration, Licensing & Charter School Committee’s chairwoman. Since 2020, school districts have faced the difficulties of COVID-19, challenges with retention and recruitment of new educators, and other issues.

Special needs and bilingual students have been especially impacted by these shortages, with many unable to receive the type of instruction that their situation demands. For example, one-third of all vacancies are for special needs educators. Through a review of current policies and practices, Scherer plans to increase the number of teachers in Illinois’ schools along with the quality of instruction they provide.

“With over 90 percent of our schools facing a teacher shortage, it’s clear that this is an issue that affects all of us no matter where we live,” said Scherer. “Let’s come together, no matter the differences, to craft policies that uplift the profession, support our schools and give our students the world-class education they deserve.”