County schools tackle big shortage of math teachers

Although Ted Gott was always good in math, it was the teachers at Southern High School who made him decide to come back and teach the subject.

Over the last 35 years he's taught algebra, geometry and Advanced Placement calculus, and now he's chairman of the math department.

"I just enjoyed being part of everything," Mr. Gott said. "The benefits are seeing kids grow and be successful."

He'll be back when classes start on Aug. 29, but retirement isn't far off. When he does go, Mr. Gott will be hard to replace -- math teachers are scarce nationwide.

"It's one thing to be good at math; it's another thing to be good...