LSU Shreveport Seeks to Address National Teacher Shortage by Preparing Future Educators in its Program

LSU Shreveport Welcomes Future Teachers into Education Program as Teacher Shortages Sweep Across Country

SHREVEPORT, La. – There are teacher vacancies in classrooms throughout the country. But in northwest Louisiana, LSU Shreveport is looking to address the issue. A study released by the Louisiana Education Department in June 2023 reveals there are more than 1,000 teacher vacancies throughout the state. In the Caddo-Bossier-DeSoto area, LSUS said there were 80 openings at the start of this month.

Addressing Teacher Shortages

“That’s causing a shortfall, especially in some harder-to-fill positions. So, secondary math is one of those areas, secondary science is another, and then special education across the board,” explained Dr. Joyce Farrow, chair of the Department of Education at LSU Shreveport.

Creating Impactful Educators

In LSUS’s program, Farrow said, they build relationships with students and cater to their needs while preparing them to become educators. She explained the difference a good teacher can make to students. “So, there’s actually been research done on the impact of having a high-quality teacher. For one year, that impact lasts for the next three to five years…

Passion for Teaching

Jessica West, a senior and education major, grew up going to local schools and plans to become a kindergarten teacher in south Louisiana after graduation. She said teaching is an act of service and love. “Me going into it and just showing people that to love the student first and to serve the student, and everything else in my philosophy will follow…

Lifechanging Career Choice

Farrow said if you’re thinking about teaching, it could be lifechanging. “You won’t always make a lot of money, but you will have a great impact on students and others’ lives for years to come.” LSUS prioritizes getting students through the program to graduation and creating great teachers, especially locally.