Teachers Union chief urges reforms as Israel faces growing educator shortage

Teachers Union Secretary-General Yaffa Ben-David warns of a shortage of nearly 5,000 teachers ahead of the school year and calls for a strategic plan to address deep-rooted problems in education, including violence, special education, and parental interference. She criticizes the Finance Ministry for determining education policy without understanding the field and advocates for a national public council to develop a long-term plan.

Teachers Union Secretary-General Yaffa Ben-David warned of a shortage of nearly 5,000 teachers ahead of the school year starting Sunday, August 23, 2026. Speaking on 103FM, she called for a strategic plan to address deep-rooted problems in the education system, warning that without it, more teachers will leave the profession. Ben-David noted the shortage reflects a global trend but stressed the need for urgent action in Israel. She highlighted several issues: the loss of a 'sense of mission' among teachers, violence in schools, problems with the special education law, and parental interference. She criticized the Finance Ministry for determining education policy, stating they have 'no understanding of education.' Ben-David advocated for a national public council to develop a long-term strategic plan independent of any single minister. She emphasized that salary alone will not solve the shortage, and that fair salaries, status, and working conditions are needed. She also pointed to overcrowded classrooms and kindergartens, questioning how better results can be expected under such conditions.