IOWA CITY, Iowa (KCRG) – The Iowa Department of Education reports nearly 99 percent of Iowa’s full-time teaching positions were filled this school year, an improvement from prior years, and three times better than the national average.
At the University of Iowa, more students are pursuing teaching careers. In spring 2020, 132 students graduated from the University to become teachers. In Spring 2025, that number increased to 168.
“We try really hard to make sure we are always communicating with our K-12 partners and what are they having the most challenge in finding,” said Mark McDermott, associate dean at the University of Iowa College of Education.
Teacher union questions data accuracy
The state teacher’s union says the report doesn’t paint the full picture…