The Addressing Teacher Shortages Act of 2026 creates a new federal grant program to help schools recruit and keep teachers, especially in areas that struggle to fill positions. The bill recognizes that many schools—particularly in rural communities and in subjects like math, science, special education, and English as a second language—can't find enough qualified teachers. It also notes that the teaching workforce doesn't reflect the racial diversity of students, with teachers of color making up only 20% of educators while students of color represent 50% of the student population.

The bill establishes competitive grants that schools and school districts can apply for to fund various teacher recruitment and support programs. These include teaching residency programs (where future teachers work alongside experienced mentors while earning their degree), mentoring programs for new teachers, "Grow Your Own" programs that help local community members become teachers, and partnerships between community colleges and four-year universities to make teacher preparation more accessible. Schools can also use the money to help current teachers earn additional certifications in high-need subjects, provide professional development, or offer career advancement opportunities.

The program prioritizes funding for rural schools, high-need subject areas, and efforts to diversify the teaching workforce. At least 25% of funding must go to each of these three priorities. Schools that receive grants must match the federal funding with their own money, though the Secretary of Education can reduce or waive this requirement for schools facing financial hardship. The grants last at least 5 years and can be renewed if schools show positive results.

To support the preparation and retention of outstanding educators in all fields to ensure a bright future for children and youth in under-resourced and underserved communities in the United States, and for other purposes.