Oklahoma students will head back to school in just a few weeks, but will your child have a teacher in the classroom? Some districts are struggling to fill positions before the first day of school and are hosting hiring events before the first day of school.
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — Oklahoma students will head back to school in just a few weeks, but will your child have a teacher in the classroom? Some districts are struggling to fill positions before the first day of school and are hosting hiring events before the first day of school.
"We still have approximately 30 special education, 40 elementary education, and then that's around 40 secondary openings," said Brad Herzer, OKCPS Assistant Superintendent of Talent Management Program.
That's more than 100 open teacher positions at one of the state's largest school districts.
The district said it's not a new issue either.
"It's been common over the last few years for us to have openings. We're actually down from this time last year," said Herzer.
Oklahoma City Public Schools are hosting a last-minute hiring event hiring event on Thursday at Northwest Classen High School from 4-6pm.
Brad Herzer said the event will focus on job openings at secondary schools because that's some of the greatest need.
The district said it's not necessary to register online, but if you want to reserve a spot, the link is here.
At the event, the district said they will have administration ready to talk and conduct interviews.
They also said there's a chance someone could get hired on the spot if they're the right candidate.
There's also no need to worry if you think you don't have the right qualifications.
"You don't have to have a standard certification in order to be a teacher if you have a bachelor's degree. We want people that are just have a heart for kids. Want to make a difference in the students lives," said Herzer.
Herzer said administration can talk about that more at the hiring event.
Oklahoma City Public Schools is not the only district dealing with a shortage.
Just a few weeks ago, Tulsa Public Schools reported they still need 168 teachers.
On the flip side, Moore Public Schools said they don't have a shortage.
They sent News 4 a statement:
This is one of the first years that MPS is not experiencing a dire shortage of teachers. Our teacher-retention numbers are exceptional this year, contributing to our solid numbers. Teachers stay with districts when they’re happy, feel valued, have a blend of needed resources to succeed, and believe that they make a positive impact on their students.
Moore Public Schools.
Edmond Public Schools also said they're in good shape.
They sent this statement to News 4:
We're in very good shape as far as openings going into the new school year. The number changes hourly as we are making hiring decisions, but I believe we have fewer than a dozen open teaching positions district-wide.
Edmond Public Schools
Deer Creek Schools told News 4 they aren't having an issue either. Earlier this year, starting pay was boosted to $46,300.
Crooked Oak Schools also increased pay this year.
However, the district sent a statement to News 4 that explained the need for teachers:
Over the last decade, Crooked Oak has increased teacher pay so our district is now one of the highest-paying districts in the state. We also strive to keep class sizes as small as possible, provide high-quality training, ensure our teachers have great facilities and resources, and we foster an environment where teachers are appreciated and celebrated. Despite all those efforts, we find ourselves in the same position as other Oklahoma school districts: consistently in need of great teachers to help our students succeed. We are incredibly grateful for all those who make the choice to teach – our children need you. Just as policy makers create financial incentives for other professions in which there are shortages – scientists, engineers, doctors, and nurses – Oklahoma must continue to focus on salary increases and incentives that encourage young people to choose teaching as a profession and makes it a profession that's attractive for those looking for a new career. Teaching is the profession that makes other professions possible. The future of our state and its children is at stake.
Crooked Oak Public Schools
Putnam City Schools also told News 4 they are actively hiring for positions.
If you'd like to see what positions are open at each school, click the links below.
