Nebraska's teacher shortage is a serious issue, with approximately 490 unfilled positions in schools entering the 2025-2026 academic year, down from 669 the previous year. The state's Department of Education has stated that the strategies are working and that the solution is not to reinvent the wheel. Dean of the College of Education, Health and Human Sciences at the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s CEDHHS, Lois Gennett, argues that effective solutions are practical, data-informed and rooted in local community partnerships. She suggests strengthening and scaling these programs already making a difference. Gennitt argues that the focus should be on practical solutions grounded in financial incentives, collaboration, and common sense solutions. She also notes that teacher shortages are not solely about recruitment or job placement, but also about early-career mentoring, professional development, and strong school leadership significantly influences whether teachers stay in the profession.