New Analysis Highlights the Critical Role of Certified Educators in Improving Academic Outcomes
AUSTIN, TX - April 10 2025 - E3 Alliance, a leading nonprofit dedicated to education in Texas, is calling for immediate policy action to prioritize certified teachers as a critical strategy for improving student outcomes. With ongoing teacher shortages across the region, particularly in rural areas, E3 Alliance stresses that only through investing in certified educators can Texas ensure all students receive the high-quality education they deserve.
As the debate over teacher certification unfolds in Texas, recent findings from a new analysis reveal the stark contrast between student achievement in public school classrooms led by certified versus uncertified teachers. During the 2022-23 school year, Central Texas saw approximately 92.7% of teachers certified, providing a strong foundation for student learning. However, rising shortages, particularly in rural districts, have led to a concerning rise in the number of uncertified educators, putting student success at risk.
“We know that effective teaching is the bedrock of successful education,” said Priscilla Flores, senior director of policy of E3 Alliance. “Certified educators bring crucial expertise and create collaborative, focused learning environments. This is essential for fostering early literacy and numeracy, which are foundational for students’ lifelong success.”
Certified Teachers: The Key to Student Achievement
In Texas, certified teachers undergo rigorous training that includes an educator preparation program, requisite examinations, and valuable classroom experience through student teaching. This comprehensive approach equips them with essential skills such as effective classroom management, targeted lesson planning, and strategies to meet diverse student needs.
Research from Texas Tech University shows a clear link between certification and improved student outcomes. Students taught by certified teachers consistently outperform their peers in critical subjects like math and reading. The reality is that relying on non-certified educators, particularly in rural districts where nearly 80% of educators are uncertified, risks stalling academic progress and undermining student achievement.
The Downside of Uncertified Teachers
The impact of uncertified teachers is profound. Without the necessary training, these educators struggle to provide effective instruction, often leading to significant learning loss. Studies suggest that students with uncertified teachers may face three to four months of academic setbacks in critical subjects such as math and reading. Additionally, these teachers may struggle with classroom management, curriculum delivery, and addressing students with learning difficulties—factors crucial to fostering a productive learning environment.
Furthermore, uncertified teachers exhibit much higher turnover rates, with a staggering 70% less likelihood of remaining in the profession than their certified counterparts. This high attrition rate creates classroom instability, adversely impacting student learning and engagement.
A Call to Action: Strengthen Support for Certified Educators
E3 Alliance urges Texas policymakers to take immediate action to tackle the escalating teacher shortage by prioritizing certified educators and creating sustainable pathways to recruit and retain them. Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s recently formed Teacher Vacancy Task Force (TVTF) aims to address this crisis. Key objectives in the TVTF report include increasing teacher compensation, expanding support for underserved areas, and launching teacher residency programs that offer mentorship and training for future educators. In conclusion, while uncertified teachers are playing a necessary role in filling gaps, it is clear that the future of Texas education relies on certified teachers. E3 Alliance calls on policymakers to take decisive steps to ensure that every child has access to the highly qualified educators they need to succeed academically and in life.
“By investing in certified teachers and their ongoing professional development, we can create an education system that requires all students with the skill to thrive,” said Flores. “The time to act is now.”
About E3 Alliance: E3 Alliance is a nationally recognized, data-driven education collaborative and solutions provider based in Central Texas. We work across the state to transform education systems through data and collaboration, so all students succeed. We also work to increase economic mobility and the overall quality of life for our community through education system alignment from pre-K to the workforce. Founded in 2006, we are a leader in collective impact, collaborating with 15 Central Texas school districts, seven higher education institutions, and numerous businesses, nonprofits, government agencies, policy leaders, students, and families.
About E3 Alliance Data and Trends Portal: The E3 Alliance Data and Trends Portal offers comprehensive insights into education outcomes across Central Texas and specific Texas regions and legislative districts. It provides educators, policymakers, business leaders, and community members with actionable data on trends that impact students, families, and the economy. Building on the Central Texas Education Profile since 2007, the portal delivers a thorough, regional assessment of educational trends and outcomes throughout Texas.