LANSING, Mich. (WILX) - New data from Michigan’s Official Education Data Source shows an increase in the number of teachers throughout the state, but some age groups of teachers are on the decline.

During the last school year, the state saw an increase in the number of teachers in their 20s and 50s, but a decrease in the number of mid-career teachers in their 30s and 40s.

Local school administrators say when schools don’t have a diverse demographic of teachers, it could negatively impact how and what a student is learning.

Jeanene Byerly is the principal at Grass Lake Middle School. She says having teachers from all backgrounds is crucial for student development.

“It allows everyone to find someone to connect with, and in middle school that’s huge,” said Byerly. “They’re trying to fi

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