Policy Brief

Addressing the Bilingual Teacher Shortage

Daniela Torre Gibney, Hannah Kelly, Sara Rutherford-Quach, Jennifer Ballen Riccards, and Carrie Parker
April 2021 | Comprehensive Center Network

This brief from the Comprehensive Center Network is the second in a four-part series that addresses challenges in bilingual education across the United States. In this resource, the authors note that more than half of states nationwide are experiencing bilingual teacher shortages. The authors provide strategies for policymakers and district leaders to consider as they look for solutions. To address educator shortages, the authors provide a variety of evidence-based approaches along with example strategies. They conclude with specific recommendations on how to address the bilingual teacher shortage by suggesting leaders identify community assets, assess needs at the district level, establish strong partnerships, and explore external sources.