Staffing Challenges in Special Education
Schools face a severe shortage of special education teachers, impacting students. VillageED offers licensed professionals to provide flexible, high-quality support in person or online.
The Special Education Staffing Crisis: Impact on Students and Solutions
Schools are facing a critical shortage of special education teachers and therapists, forcing them to rely on unqualified substitutes and uncertified staff. This puts a significant strain on students with disabilities who require specialized support.
Widespread Shortages 🧑🏫
A recent survey by Bellwether Education Partners found that 86% of US schools struggle to recruit special education staff, including classroom aides and transport workers. The shortage of special education teachers is particularly severe, with vacancy rates double that of other subject areas and triple that of general education.
A Persistent Problem 😥
This shortage predates the pandemic. Schools have struggled for years to hire special education teachers due to the increasing number of students with disabilities requiring individualized learning plans.
Creative Solutions and Potential Drawbacks 🤔
Districts are trying to find solutions, such as:
- Hiring paraprofessionals without teaching experience
- Employing individuals without teaching licenses who are willing to learn on the job
However, research suggests that teachers who enter the profession through alternative certification routes are more likely to experience burnout and leave within their first year.
VillageED: Qualified and Accessible Support ✨
At VillageED, our providers are fully credentialed and licensed. We offer services in person, virtually, or through recorded videos, ensuring your child can receive educational support anytime, anywhere.
Ready to experience the difference? Try VillageED today!