The United States is facing a severe teacher shortage, with more than 400,000 unfilled or underqualified teaching positions nationwide. This crisis has led to overcrowded classrooms, overworked teachers, and declining student outcomes. School districts—especially those in rural and low-income communities—are struggling to find and retain qualified educators, and the demand for certified teachers is only growing.

Moreland University, through its acclaimed TEACH-NOW program, is tackling this crisis head-on by providing a streamlined, flexible, and globally accessible pathway to teacher certification. By leveraging innovative online learning, accelerated programs, and global networking, Moreland is equipping aspiring educators with the skills and credentials they need to enter classrooms quickly and effectively.

Understanding the U.S. Teacher Shortage

The teacher shortage isn’t just a temporary setback—it’s a structural issue with long-term consequences for the education system.

Current Teacher Shortage Statistics

• More than 400,000 classrooms lack a fully certified teacher.
• The U.S. needs at least 100,000 new teachers annually to meet growing student enrollment.
• Special education, STEM, and bilingual education face the most severe shortages.
• Over 90% of school districts report difficulty hiring qualified teachers.

(Source: National Center for Education Statistics, Learning Policy Institute)

This shortage has serious implications, including lower student performance, increased teacher burnout, and widening educational inequities. Without bold, scalable solutions, the situation will continue to deteriorate.

Moreland University: A Leader in Teacher Education

Founded in 2011, Moreland University is an accredited institution dedicated exclusively to teacher preparation. Unlike traditional universities, Moreland has reimagined how teachers are trained and certified by focusing on:

• Innovative, online learning models that allow flexibility for career changers and working professionals.
• A competency-based, collaborative curriculum designed to ensure teachers are classroom-ready from day one.
• A global community of educators, with graduates from over 165 countries and partnerships with schools worldwide.

Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW program has quickly become one of the most respected and effective teacher certification programs. With accreditations by CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation), the gold standard for teacher education programs and recognized by multiple U.S. state departments of education for teacher licensure, Moreland University is ranked among the most effective online teacher preparation programs, with a 96% first-time PRAXIS pass rate, raising the standards in teacher education.  

TEACH-NOW is Solving the Teacher Shortage

TEACH-NOW is designed for recent college graduates seeking teacher certification,career changers looking to transition into education, international teachers who want to be licensed in the U.S., and paraprofessionals & teaching assistants aiming to advance their careers.

It is uniquely designed to address both the quantity and quality of teachers entering the profession. And here’s how:

1. Accelerated & Flexible Pathway to Certification

Traditional teacher preparation programs can take 2+ years to complete. TEACH-NOW gets aspiring teachers into classrooms in just 9 months, making it one of the fastest, most efficient routes to licensure.

• Fully online – Learn from anywhere, anytime.
• Activity-based learning – No passive lectures; instead, engage in real-world teaching simulations.
• Collaborative learning cohorts – Work with educators across the U.S. and globally.

This model is ideal for career changers, paraprofessionals, and international educators seeking U.S. certification.

2. Addressing Certification Barriers

One of the biggest roadblocks to solving the teacher shortage is the complexity of certification requirements across different states. TEACH-NOW simplifies this by offering:

• State-approved licensure pathways that meet certification requirements in multiple states.
• Alternative certification programs for those who want to teach while completing coursework.
• District partnerships that allow school systems to place teachers in classrooms while they earn their certification.

3. Filling Gaps in High-Need Areas

TEACH-NOW prioritizes training in subjects and regions facing the most severe shortages, including:

• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math)
• Special Education
• Bilingual & English as a Second Language (ESL) Education
• Urban & Rural School Districts

By focusing on these areas, Moreland ensures that the students who need teachers the most get access to qualified, well-prepared educators.

4. Supporting Career Advancement & Retention

The teacher shortage isn’t just about hiring—it’s also about keeping teachers in the profession. TEACH-NOW helps with:

• Ongoing mentorship & support, reducing burnout.
• Professional development & master’s degree options, helping teachers advance their careers.
• Global networking opportunities, enabling educators to share best practices across borders.

This comprehensive support system increases retention rates, ensuring that teachers don’t just enter the profession but stay and thrive.

Being Part of the Solution

The teacher shortage requires bold, immediate action—and Moreland University and its TEACH-NOW program is leading the way.  

Interested individuals can apply by visiting Moreland University’s website and explore TEACH-NOW program details.  Complete the online application and submit required documents. Within weeks, you will be able to join a learning cohort and begin coursework.
And in just 9 months, start your teaching career!

By removing barriers to certification, providing cutting-edge, flexible training, and ensuring high-quality preparation, Moreland is equipping the next generation of educators to fill critical teaching positions across the country.

Moreland University can help you make a difference in students’ lives, advance your career, and become part of the solution. TEACH-NOW is the path forward to solve America’s teacher shortage and around the world.