Illinois schools continue to struggle with teacher shortages, with rural districts facing some of the greatest challenges.
According to the Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools, teacher vacancies during the 2025-26 school year were 38% higher statewide than in 2022. In rural districts, vacancies were up 67% over the same period.
Program Director John Glasgow said that while shortages have improved during the past two years, the problem remains critical for rural schools, which often have fewer options to compensate for unfilled positions.
Illinois has approximately 500 rural school districts, where lower salaries, transportation issues and distance from larger communities can make recruiting and retaining teachers more difficult.
The state has responded through several initiatives, including the Teacher Vacancy Grant Program. During its first three years, the program received $120 million, with 60% of participating districts located in rural areas. Funding was reduced to $15 million this year amid a tighter state budget.
Schools are also using incentives including signing bonuses, housing assistance and loan repayment programs while providing additional resources and support to retain existing teachers.