We face an educational reckoning if steps are not taken to address the teacher shortage in the United States. But how can we attract teachers when education has become so politicized?

Not too long ago, the country was, to some degree, united in fighting COVID-19. There was an expectation that wearing a mask, while not perfect, would protect children from contracting or spreading COVID-19. Such solidarity no longer exists. The mask debate has become a political football with broad implications for the future of education.

With the acrimony from this debate, we stand the risk of turning off those who desire to be teachers. The current political climate can be more than discouraging for young, impressionable teacher candidates.

This situation couldn’t come at a more inopportune time, as the nation faces serious challenges recruiting teachers. In a recent letter to school districts, Education Secretary Miguel Cardona stresses the importance of school leaders urging vaccination. He recommends that they use resources made available through the American Rescue Plan Act.

As policymakers, educational think tanks, researchers and administrators work to find ways to attract new teachers and come up with ways of improving teacher pay, we all can change how we treat members of this profession.

First, recognize the impact teachers have made on us all. I will always remember the time a teacher shared with me that she believed one of her students was a diabetic. The possibility never dawned on the parent; she just thought her child was thirsty a lot. The teacher turned out to be correct. The impact she had on that child was life-changing.

It’s important to not view educators as political pundits, despite the ever-so-toxic environment that’s pitting people against each other, where adversarial relationships are embraced.

Political leader Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

Debates come and go; our differences are part of our reality. However, respect should never compromised. Those who work with children need our support more than ever before. So many of our youths need consistency and a positive influence in their lives. Teachers provide all of that and more.

Jerald McNair is a school administrator in South Holland School District 151 in Illinois.