In this episode of Praxis Journeys, host Vinay Ganti speaks with Jimmy Adams, Executive Director of NASDTEC, about the rapidly changing landscape of teacher licensure, the national teacher shortage, and how states are rethinking educator mobility and teacher retention.
This episode explores major questions shaping the future of the profession, including:
- How the Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact improves teacher mobility and reduces barriers for educators relocating across states
- Why teacher shortages are often really teacher distribution and retention challenges
- How different preparation pathways—traditional programs, alternative certification, residencies, and apprenticeships—impact teacher retention rates
- What supports new teachers truly need, including multi‑year mentoring, strong school leadership, and robust instructional coaching
- How licensure, educator preparation programs (EPPs), and state policy must evolve to better prepare and retain effective teachers
- NASDTEC’s early work to define what new teachers should know and be able to do to succeed on day one
Whether you’re a district leader, policymaker, educator preparation partner, or anyone following education workforce trends, this conversation provides a timely, insightful look at how licensure policy intersects with teacher quality, support systems, and long‑term retention.
