The teacher crisis crosses borders: the challenge uniting the world

The EDUNATION 2026 international education conference took place in Jerusalem, initiated by the Jerusalem Municipality, with educators from Israel and around the world. The main session addressed the crisis in teacher status, burnout, and a shortage of teaching staff. Speakers from California and Harvard presented approaches to strengthening the profession.

The first EDUNATION 2026 international education conference was held at the Binyanei Ha'uma convention center in Jerusalem, initiated by the Jerusalem Municipality, bringing together educators, researchers, and decision-makers from Israel and various countries. The session "A Guide for the Perplexed: The Status Crisis" discussed professional burnout, teacher shortages, and ways to strengthen the teaching profession. David Shapira, Deputy Superintendent of Public Education in California, emphasized the need for recognition and appropriate compensation for teachers. Noah Heller from Harvard University called for creating professional development pathways for teachers within the classroom. Representatives from Japan, Germany, and Greece participated in the discussion. The conference also addressed innovation, technology, and preparing the younger generation for future professions. Hagit Moshe, holder of the education portfolio at the Jerusalem Municipality, noted the importance of educators coming from abroad, especially in the current period. The article is integrated in collaboration with the Jerusalem Municipality.