Teacher retention crisis causing classroom staffing shortages and educational disruption

School districts across Maryland are losing experienced teachers faster than they can replace them, creating chronic staffing gaps that force remaining teachers to work unsustainable hours and compromise educational quality. Districts lack effective retention strategies beyond salary increases they cannot afford, while teachers cite burnout, lack of support, and better opportunities elsewhere as reasons for leaving. Current solutions (modest pay raises, generic professional development) fail to address the root causes of teacher dissatisfaction and departure.