According to a new survey by the National Center for Education Statistics, more than half (53%) of US school principals say they were short-staffed at the beginning of this school year. The Education Dept. published the survey results on Tuesday as part of an investigation into the nationwide issue.
Of those experiencing shortages, the majority reported struggling with unfilled support staff, teaching, and other positions since the start of the COVID pandemic. About 20% of principals said their schools were understaffed before COVID.
The Biden administration is working hard to tackle a growing crisis caused by poor wages and untenable conditions for those taking on some of the most crucial roles. Biden is partnering with major job search companies to proactively tackle these shortages and protect the future of American children.
There are staff shortages in schools, but not for the reasons you'd think. This isn't an issue of working conditions, but rather a reflection of the current strong employee market. Schools are competing for teachers, just like all sectors are competing for employees. Thankfully, many people are still entering teaching to fulfill a vocation.