Teaching grads face tight local job market

Utah Valley University (UVU) graduates entering the teaching profession are struggling to secure jobs amid a highly competitive local market. Gracie George, a recent UVU graduate, has faced difficulty landing interviews despite completing her student teaching this spring, with only two out of 24 in her cohort securing contracts. The 2026 School of Education cohort at UVU, numbering around 250, entered their programs after hearing about a national teacher shortage, only to find limited openings in Utah’s Wasatch Front region. Alpine School District (ASD), Utah’s largest, listed just 20 elementary and six secondary teaching positions as of June 1, attracting 150 applicants per elementary role and around 100 for secondary subjects like English and history. Specialized positions in math, science, and career-technical education (CTE) received fewer applications but still faced strong competition. ASD Director of Communications Rich Stowell cited supply and demand as the primary challenge, noting that three nearby universities—UVU, Brigham Young University, and Western Governors University—produce hundreds of qualified candidates annually. The district’s strong teacher retention and reputation as a desirable workplace contribute to high application rates, even as student enrollment plateaus or declines in some areas. James Jacob, Dean of UVU’s School of Education, acknowledged the difficulty but advised graduates to explore opportunities outside the Wasatch Front, where districts like Clark County (Nevada) and Denver Public Schools (Colorado) face severe shortages. Rural Utah districts within driving distance also have unfilled positions, offering alternatives for job seekers willing to relocate. To improve their chances locally, Jacob recommended pursuing specialized credentials, such as certification in Special Education or coaching, which remain in high demand nationwide. He also emphasized networking through UVU’s K-12 alliance, which provides students with classroom exposure and connections to schools. While the job market is tight, graduates with targeted skills or flexibility in location have better prospects, according to experts.