December 28, 2020
California substitute shortage compounded by pandemic could keep some schools closed
A critical shortage of substitute teachers is making it difficult for some school districts to stay open or to reopen later this school year.
California is experiencing a shortage of teachers, especially in special education, bilingual education, and science, technology, engineering and technology, or STEM. EdSource Today is tracking how the shortage is impacting different districts and regions statewide. Many are working on aggressive tactics to recruit and retain teachers, including offering bonuses and other incentives, and building teacher “residency” programs.