Schools Face Shortage of Essential Workers

(from the New York Times) Across the country, school districts are desperate to fill jobs. Some are struggling to retain counselors, teachers and principals, but a more urgent need seems to be for employees who have traditionally operated behind the scenes — cafeteria workers, bus drivers and substitute teachers. According to experts, the low pay, sparse benefits and erratic schedules of these jobs made hiring a problem before the pandemic, which the current situation has only worsened. Many workers are older and are choosing to retire early to avoid the risk of exposure to unvaccinated children. Ironically schools that receive federal funding now have ample funds but cannot find the workers to fill the positions. 

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