Kentucky faces teacher shortage

Glasgow Ky.- A shortage of teachers will lead to a shortage of learning.

The Kentucky Department of Education is emphasizing that Kentucky is currently suffering from a teacher shortage. According to Kentuckyteacher.Org, since Jan. 1, 5,000 open positions have been listed on the Kentucky Educator Placement Service, which is a service by the Kentucky Department of Education dedicated to fill teaching vacancies. The Barren County Schools have been noticing fewer teacher applicants, and assistant superintendent Cortni Crews said while the job is hard, it’s one that’s crucial.

“It’s a hard job, it really is, but it’s so important. I really believe it’s a difference maker and a game changer in the lives of our young people,” Crews said.

The shortage of educators is not going unnoticed. The Barren County Schools have programs in place that keep people in the education fields.

These programs include shadowing opportunities for young students to be introduced to teaching. Before Kathy Burris was the Barren County director of elementary instruction, she was a teacher.

“Teachers play so many roles in the lives of kids, not just academically, but also socially,” Burris said.

With the demanding job of teaching, Burris said there’s one specific factor that made the long hours worth it.

“It’s all about the kids. I had a lot of fun when I was in the classroom, we worked really hard, we had lots of rigorous activities. At the end of the day, I love the kids. That’s what made me go every single day,” Burris said.

Crews emphasized that the rewards of teaching aren’t money or recognition, but it’s all about making students bloom.

“It’s not about credentials, it’s not about money, it’s not about awards. It’s about who cares about you. Who makes a difference in your life, and that’s what teachers do? They make a difference in lives,” Crews said.