Virginia Department of Education reports teacher shortages, Roanoke County shows improvement
Roanoke, Virginia – The Virginia Department of Education has disclosed in a recent report that over 3,500 teacher positions remained unfilled for the academic year 2022-2023. As Jodilee Edsall, Roanoke County Public Schools Associate Director of Human Resources, noted, “It’s been more difficult to hire.” She did add that there were signs of a positive shift, despite the challenges.
The labor shortages triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic have significantly affected school systems. According to officials from Roanoke County schools, such a shortage can potentially impede children’s academic development. “We still try to keep ours small but that will impact when class sizes get bigger,” explained Edsall. She further stated that larger class sizes might affect students’ learning, as they may not receive the necessary individual attention.
This year, Roanoke County schools report a reduced teacher shortage but acknowledge the necessity for other roles. Edsall remarked, “We have almost every one filled. We still have some openings in transportation, for bus drivers and bus aides. Still have openings for nutrition, for nutrition associates.”
Efforts this year are geared towards retaining existing staff, with Edsall emphasizing the significance of year-to-year retention for ensuring continuity and success. “The retention of people staying is huge because then everybody [knows] the routine. Kids know the familiarity of people showing up,” she elaborated.
The school officials concluded with a positive note, acknowledging the improvements made this year compared to the past and their ongoing dedication to continue this upward trend.
