The teacher supply and demand problem is considered along three dimensions: (1) the aggregate balance between supply and demand, and the balance in different education specialties and different areas of the country; (2) the composition of the teacher work force, its age, and level of training; and (3) the apparent quality of the work force and the ability to attract highly qualified new teachers. Effects of the "baby boom" are discussed as they reflect a current general glut of teachers which may be so pervasive as to discourage potential teachers from entering training programs. This same demographic phenomenon is analyzed for its future implications; namely, that there will be a teacher shortage due to increasing birth rates. Three areas of critical teacher shortage--science, mathematics, and computer education--are cited as problems that have no immediately predictable solutions. General migration from north to south and an apparent increase in movement from urban to rural areas is considered in an examination of population trends. Suggestions are made for developing policies which may offer promise for improving the overall status of teaching. (JD)