SACRAMENTO, Calif. (KERO) — A nationwide teacher shortage has forced many school districts to think creatively to get more teachers in the classroom. California's school superintendent held a summit to recruit teachers on Monday.
The state already faced a teacher shortage before the pandemic, but nearly a third of those who retired in that time frame, say COVID drove them to retire early.
"You'll post a job and no one will apply," said Laura Bariel, the teaching and learning director at Natomas Charter School.
And educators blame the low pay.
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A state bill would raise the pay of all school staff, by fifty percent over the next six years, which some say would make it a livable career, retaining more teachers. It also means paying student teachers and creating credentialing programs at community colleges.
"It is all about the students and building a community where they can learn and grow," added Bariel.
California is offering a $20,000 scholarship to people who want to get a teaching degree and the school system says it plans to offer other incentives as well.
