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Gaps in the collection, use, and availability of data seriously compromise efforts to plan and monitor the teacher workforce at both the state and local levels. This leaves policymakers and education officials with little in-depth understanding of the current shortage of qualified teachers, the inequitable distribution of fully qualified teachers, or a clear picture of future workforce needs.

This issue of CenterView, produced by the Center for the Future of Teaching and Learning at WestEd, presents a strong case for creating a statewide teacher data system by highlighting some of the simple teacher workforce questions that cannot be answered because such a system does not exist.

The issue also identifies the key problems with California’s current system of collecting data. Building on the foundations of current efforts and based on years of experience in workforce research, it offers suggestions for improvement.

Visit the Center for the Future of Teaching and Learning at WestEd website for more information about the Center and its publications.