Northwest Iowa — School districts are finding it hard to find someone to substitute for any teacher who gets sick, goes on maternity leave, or has to miss a day for any reason.
Sibley-Ocheyedan Superintendent James Craig tells us that it’s not only substitutes — there is also a shortage of teachers, bus drivers, janitors, and support staff. He says they also have a hard time finding someone to substitute for those positions as well. He says they are filling the spots with other teachers and support staff, and even he, himself has filled in to substitute if needed. Craig tells us how to become a substitute.
Sheldon Superintendent Corey Myer shares a statistic with us.
He says that the state of Iowa has changed its requirements for substituting to make it easier for people in the community to become substitutes. According to iowa.gov, the requirements are now an Associate’s Degree, or at least 60 semester hours, and the completion of a substitution authorization course that is approved by the state.
Craig and Myer both explained that many districts have upped their pay for substitutes. Craig would like to encourage anyone to consider substituting.
If you have any questions about becoming a substitute you can call your local school district for information.
