Maryland’s Teacher Shortage: A Challenge That Opens Doors for New Educators
| by Hannah Sparling
Maryland is facing a significant teacher shortage, with open jobs for elementary, middle, and secondary school teachers expected to grow 11% by 2032, compared to 2022, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. That’s more than 5,000 open teaching positions every single year.
For the state’s education system, the shortage is a significant challenge. But for aspiring teachers, it presents a window of opportunity. If you’ve ever considered a teaching career in Maryland, the demand for qualified, passionate individuals has never been higher.
Keep reading to learn why the shortage exists, where demand is highest, and what you can do to launch your career as a Maryland teacher.
Why the Shortage Exists
The teacher shortage in Maryland is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors:
Factors Behind the Shortage
Teacher burnout is a primary concern, with many educators feeling overwhelmed by heavy workloads, extensive administrative duties, and the emotional demands of the job.
Competitive pay is another critical issue. The average teacher salary in Maryland is $84,338, according to the National Education Association. That’s the 7th highest rate in the nation, but teachers in Maryland still make significantly less than their college-educated counterparts with similar levels of experience.
Finally, the traditional pipeline for new teachers has narrowed. Fewer college students are enrolling in teacher preparation programs, leading to a smaller pool of licensed candidates ready to enter the workforce upon graduation.
Understanding the Numbers: Vacancies, Licenses, & Subject Gaps
Teacher vacancies are more than just numbers on a spreadsheet. Each represents a classroom without a permanent, dedicated teacher. For students, that could mean instability and/or a rotation of long-term subs. For existing teachers, they’re left to pick up the slack by covering extra classes or managing larger class sizes. This leads to burnout, which leads to more vacancies — and the cycle continues.
The gaps are also more pronounced in certain areas, which can lead to disparity for students in access and quality. For example, the Maryland State Department of Education lists special education, STEM, and ESL as “critical” subject areas for teacher hiring.
Where Demand Is Highest
If you’re looking to make the greatest impact as a teacher, focusing on one of those high-need subject areas is a great place to start.
High-Need Areas: Special Ed, STEM, ESL, and Rural Districts
The most critical shortages in Maryland are in specialized fields that require specific expertise. These include:
- Special education: Students with disabilities make up 12% of Maryland’s student body, according to the state department of education. This means there’s a consistent and urgent need for teachers qualified to work with students with diverse learning needs.
- English as a Second Language (ESL): Multilingual learners also make up 12% of Maryland’s student population, according to the state.
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math): As the economy becomes more technologically advanced, the demand for skilled STEM teachers continues to grow.
- Rural districts: Schools in more remote parts of the state often struggle to attract and retain qualified educators, creating significant opportunities for those willing to serve in these communities.
Alternative Pathway: A Bridge to the Classroom
Maryland is embracing alternative pathways to teacher certification. If you have a bachelor’s degree in a field other than education, you don’t have to start over. You can even teach full-time in a Maryland classroom while you’re completing an Educator Preparation Program to earn your license.
New Pathways to the Classroom in Maryland
Maryland is championing multiple avenues for teacher training and development, especially for those coming from non-traditional backgrounds.
Registered Apprenticeships and On-the-Job Training
Maryland has a Registered Teacher Apprentice Program where apprentices can work in the classroom while they earn their college degree and teaching license. When fully scaled, the program will be open to participants across the state, from high school students considering a career in teaching to mid-career professionals preparing for a pivot.
Alternative Certification & ‘Feds to Eds’ Program
Alternative certification programs are designed for prospective teachers who already hold a bachelor’s degree but lack formal teacher training. These programs often offer an accelerated path to licensure. Through Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program, for example, you could earn your professional Maryland teaching license in as little as 9 months. TEACH-NOW is 100% online, with rolling admissions, monthly start dates, and small cohorts of teachers from around the world.
Additionally, initiatives like Maryland’s “Feds to Eds” program aim to recruit federal employees into teaching, leveraging their skills and experience to benefit Maryland schools and students.
Support for Career Switchers and Nontraditional Teachers
Maryland recognizes that career switchers bring a wealth of knowledge and life experience to the classroom. The state and its partners offer dedicated support systems, including mentorship and professional development, to help these new educators successfully transition into their roles. This ensures they feel prepared and confident from day one.
What the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Means for New Teachers
The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future is a legislative initiative designed to transform the state’s education system. For new teachers, it promises significant improvements in pay, professional support, and career opportunities.
$60,000 Starting Pay by 2026
A cornerstone of the blueprint is a commitment to raising the minimum starting salary for teachers to $60,000 by 2026. (The average starting salary for a Maryland teacher is currently $54,439, according to the NEA.) This move is intended to make teaching a more lucrative and financially sustainable career, helping to attract and retain top talent in the profession.
Expanded Planning Time and Professional Growth
The blueprint supports reorganizing the school day to increase opportunities for teacher collaboration, mentorship, and professional development. It also builds a career ladder that gives teachers opportunities for promotion and higher compensation. As teachers move up the ladder, their salary can increase between $5,000 and $15,000 for each level. Ultimately, a teacher could earn a six-figure salary, according to the department of education.
Investments in Teacher Diversity and Development
Maryland’s student body is incredibly diverse, but the teacher workforce does not match, according to MSDE data. So the blueprint aims to recruit and retain more teachers of color. It also funds professional development programs to ensure educators have access to ongoing training and support throughout their careers.
How to Start Teaching in Maryland Now
Ready to answer the call? Here are the practical steps you can take to begin your journey toward becoming a licensed teacher in Maryland.
Steps to Licensure
The traditional path to licensure in Maryland involves going to a four-year college and earning a bachelor’s degree in education. However, if you already have a bachelor’s degree in another subject, you don’t have to start over. You can apply for a conditional or temporary license and teach in a Maryland school while you complete a teacher preparation program.
In general, Maryland teachers need to earn a bachelor’s degree (again, your degree does not have to be in education), complete a teacher preparation program, complete a background check, and pass the Maryland licensure assessments. For more information on the step-by-step process to earning a license, download our Guide to Teacher Certification in Maryland.
Financial Aid, Grants, and Incentives for Future Teachers
Don’t let finances stand in your way. There are state and federal grants for teachers, scholarships, and loan forgiveness programs, particularly for those who commit to teaching in high-need areas. Researching these opportunities can significantly reduce the cost of your certification.
Some school districts also pay teacher preparation program tuition in exchange for a certain number of years of service. It’s important to talk with your school or district about what support is available.
Resources for Mentorship, Support, and Career Growth
You won’t be on your own as a new teacher. Maryland offers robust induction and mentorship programs to support educators in their first few years. Schools and districts also provide a community where you can share experiences, seek advice, and grow professionally.
Your classmates from your teacher preparation program are another great place to give and get support throughout your career.
And finally, search for online teacher groups and subscribe to newsletters and podcasts. This is a great way to get ideas, learn new techniques, and find a sense of community and camaraderie.
Stories From the Field
Need some inspiration? Maryland has plenty of career-changer teachers who are thriving in the classroom.
- Patricia Polster is a French native with a background in PR and lobbying. Now she teaches first grade in a French immersion program for Montgomery County Public Schools.
- Nick George was a long-term sub who decided during COVID that it was time to plant his feet and pursue a full-time career in education.
- Andres and Victoria Negro are a husband and wife who went through Moreland’s program together to earn their teaching licenses. Next up, master’s degrees.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to become a teacher in Maryland?
If you already have a bachelor’s degree, the fastest route is typically through an alternative Educator Preparation Program. Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program can be completed in as little as 9 months.
How much will I make as a new teacher in Maryland by 2026?
Thanks to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, the minimum starting salary for Maryland teachers is set to be $60,000 by the 2026-2027 school year.
What programs help mid-career professionals switch to teaching?
Alternative certification programs are specifically designed for mid-career professionals. These programs provide the necessary pedagogical training and lead to state licensure.
Is Maryland offering paid teaching apprenticeships?
Yes, Maryland has launched registered apprenticeship programs that allow individuals to earn a salary while working in a school and completing their teacher certification requirements.
How can I find support or mentorship as a new Maryland teacher?
Most school districts in Maryland have formal induction and mentorship programs for new teachers. These programs pair new educators with experienced veterans who provide guidance, support, and professional coaching during the first few years.
Are there grants or scholarships to become a teacher in Maryland?
Yes. One example is the Teaching Fellows for Maryland Scholarship.There are also federal and state financial aid options, especially for those willing to work in high-need subject areas or schools. Some school districts in Maryland also provide tuition support for teacher licensure, typically in exchange for a certain number of years of service.
Become a licensed Maryland teacher in as little as 9 months with Moreland University. Our TEACH-NOW program is 100% online, with small class sizes, rolling admissions, and monthly start dates.
Apply for free (only takes about 15 minutes), and you’ll hear back within 2 business days.
