B
The number of applications for teaching positions in Newtown' s public schools was 5. 7 percent lower in 1993 than in 1985 and 5. 9 percent lower in 1994 than in 1985. Despite a steadily growing student population and an increasing number of teacher resignations, however, Newtown does not face a teacher shortage in the late 1990' s. Which of the following, if true, would contribute most to an explanation of the apparent discrepancy above?
A: New housing developments planned for Newtown are slated for occupancy in 1997 and are expected to increase the number of elementary school students in Newtown's public schools by 12 percent.
B: In 1993 Newtown's public schools received 40 percent more applications for teaching positions than there were positions available.
C: The Newtown school board does not contemplate increasing the ratio of students to teachers in the 1990's.
D: Teachers' colleges in and near Newtown produced fewer graduates in 1994 than in 1993.