Local school districts are at risk of running short on male teachers.
A new report from the Maryland State Department of Education shows seven of every eight teachers hired last year were women.
The shortage is especially egregious in special education, early childhood education and languages.
"Our undergraduate programs are not creating enough people who are interested in education," said Dana Davison, Montgomery County Public Schools Human Resources and Development. "It's our job as a school system to say we need you."
The state school board recommended formally declaring a shortage of men in public school classrooms. By making a formal declaration, state officials change some of the rules in public schools. In some districts, retired teachers will be allowed to be rehired and rejoin the workforce. Some college students who choose teaching will qualify for extra financial incentives and loan assistance.
Public school officials in Prince George’s and Montgomery counties said they are aware of the problem and trying to address it.
"It's imperative that students have a connection with a male teacher so they can have the kinds of conversations they need to have to grow socially," said Pete Daddone of Urbana Middle School.
