Mass. schools dealing with staffing shortages as students return to classroom

WORCESTER, Mass. — Monday marks the first day of class in Massachusetts for thousands of students and many schools are dealing with staffing shortages.

From bus drivers to teachers, it’s been a challenge trying to hire enough staff this summer. Boston Public Schools had more than a thousand job openings for the district which employs about 11,000 people. More than 260 of those vacancies are for teachers.

Worcester is beginning the new school year with a new superintendent in place, but there were still dozens of other job openings listed on the district’s website. The Worcester School Committee recently voted to raise the pay for substitute teachers in an effort to fill the gaps and get more quality teachers in the classroom.

Superintendents across the state have said it’s been tough to retain some teachers following a rocky couple of years in and out of the classroom during the pandemic.

COVID-19 still remains a concern, but masks will not be required for students and staff to begin they new school year. Student will also not have to test for the virus unless they’re showing symptoms.

Officials do recommend that all faculty, staff, and students, including the youngest children ages 6 months – 5 years, receive the COVID-19 vaccine primary series and all boosters, as they become eligible for them.

In addition to Worcester, other communities returning to class on Monday include Fitchburg, Peabody, Lawrence, Sharon, and Burlington.

Boston Public Schools begins classes on Sept. 8 after the Labor Day holiday.

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