The Arizona Department of Education recently released a report on the state’s teacher shortage — showing thousands of positions remain unfilled.
And thousands more are being filled through alternative methods, such as long-term substitutes, contract workers and student teachers.
"We’ve lost 1,000 teachers since July. We have over 2,000 classes being taught by permanent substitutes, who are not properly trained to teach the kids, so the kids are getting cheated," state Superintendent Tom Horne said.
Horne said the state must increase teachers’ salaries.
He also said student behavior is contributing to the problem, and teachers must be given more non-violent disciplinary options to help rein in out-of-control classrooms.
More Arizona education news
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The Phoenix Union High School District passed a student-led climate resolution Thursday. The resolution intends to transition the district to renewable energy. But, the action could face financial challenges as Trump administration continues assault on climate projects. -
A former Yuma Elementary School District employee pleaded guilty to two felonies after investigators discovered she embezzled $86,000. -
Darlene Justus is determined to preserve two military barracks from Camp Papago Park — a World War II POW camp. -
A former employee of the Arizona Department of Education is suing both Democratic Attorney General Kris Mayes and Republican Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Horne for accusing him of committing fraud. -
Sister Lynn Winsor — a legend in Arizona sports and longtime Title IX advocate — is retiring. The so-called "Energizer Nunny," and Arizona Sports Hall of Fame inductee has led Phoenix's Xavier College Prep to national record 40 state girls golf titles.
