In this series from Frontline Education, learn from our elementary and middle school-aged experts who will take a quick look at a data point that impacts school leaders. See how they examine the data to find out what it can tell us and what takeaways or questions we might reflect on. All in 2 minutes or less!
A Closer Look at the Substitute Shortage
Can’t find enough substitute teachers to cover teacher absences? Seems like a simple case of not enough substitutes, right?
While you might need a larger pool of substitutes, it’s also possible that you have plenty — and that they just aren’t taking jobs in your district. The Frontline Research & Learning Institute found that on any given month or school year, half of all substitute teachers didn’t work. And on average, substitutes only work about four days a month. All that adds up — nationally, only 80 percent of teacher absences are covered by a qualified substitute.
Try talking to the substitute teachers in your district:
- If they aren’t taking jobs, why not?
- What steps could you take to make your school or district a more attractive place for them to work?
For kids, it could mean the difference between a class covered by a skilled substitute teacher and a silent “study hall.”
Ryan Estes
Ryan is a Customer Marketing Manager for the global award-winning Content Team at Frontline Education. He spends his time writing, podcasting, and talking to leaders in K-12 education.