This study investigates the potential for recruiting Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reservists to fill significant manpower shortages within the Israeli education system. Set against the backdrop of the "Swords of Iron" war (begun in October 2023), the research posits that the conflict has created a unique "time of willingness"—a temporal window characterized by heightened civic responsibility and volunteerism that can be leveraged to revitalize the teaching profession.

Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the study analyzed data from 523 survey participants and 50 in-depth interviews conducted between December 2024 and January 2025. The research sought to measure the motivation of reservists to enter teaching and to identify the specific barriers preventing them from doing so.

The findings reveal a strong positive correlation between active service in the war and a willingness to teach. Combat officers, in particular, demonstrated the highest levels of motivation, expressing a specific readiness to work in Israel's geographic periphery where shortages are most acute. Statistical analysis confirmed that war participation was the strongest predictor of this willingness, surpassing other demographic factors.

However, the study also highlights critical deterrents. Potential recruits are discouraged by the erosion of teacher authority, a lack of support from parents and the school system,…