“That is verging on a crisis,” said Elizabeth Birr Moje, dean of the University of Michigan’s School of Education. “We know that great instruction matters, and we know that teachers who are not prepared are not providing great instruction.”¶¶Moje and other experts called the long-term sub trend a symptom of institutional problems that have underpaid teachers and left them with fewer classroom resources, diminished respect and looking for another career.¶¶Higher pay and more classroom funding would attract teachers to Michigan, several panelists said. But changing rhetoric about the profession is important too, some argued. That could include touting the profession as a vehicle for social change and justice – as well as toning down rhetoric focusing solely on teacher accountability.¶¶”Let’s stop talking about teachers as if they’re idiots,” said Moje, adding that her school is trying to tell positive stories about teaching.