This pandemic has greatly impacted school life. There have been countless articles and discussions detailing how school-age students have been challenged during these times. But what impact has the pandemic had on teachers?

Nearly 27% of teachers are considering quitting because of COVID-19, according to the November 2020 Horace Mann Educator Health and Well-Being Study. And according to the New York State Teachers’ Retirement System, educators filing for retirement more than doubled from August 2019 to August 2020.

Replacing retiring teachers will be a challenge for school districts. But this challenge also brings with it the opportunity for school officials to redefine the selection criteria for these new hires. In April, the New York State Board of Regents advanced a statement calling for greater diversity, equity, and inclusion across New York State. One of the areas outlined in the Regents’ framework suggests that schools implement workforce diversity, "including practices and policies to recruit and retain a diverse workforce in all areas and levels." Recent events highlight the need not only for a diverse teacher workforce, but also for candidates who have experience working with people from varied backgrounds.

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