Advocates rally to urge PA lawmakers to do more about teacher shortages

DAUPHIN COUNTY, Pa (WHP) — Dozens of advocates rallied at the Capitol on Tuesday urging lawmakers to do more about teacher shortages.

Recent reports finds new teacher certifications in Pennsylvania hit an all-time low last year; all while teacher turnover rates hit an all-time high.

The 'PA Needs Teachers" Campaign rallied to support new bills in the Senate and House to provide student-teachers with stipends, and implement community programs at schools.

"And I know just how important the work you do is, and not only are you not in your classrooms right now, but you're here talking to us. And we need your voices more than ever, so sincerely, thank you so much, to all of you." Rep. Michael Schlossberg (D-Lehigh) told the group.

Those opposed to the bills worry that money will not be enough to resolve the teacher shortage.

Currently, Pennsylvania is in the top dozen states in average public teacher pay.