This school year, students and teachers have noticed fewer class options, increased number of substitutes and teachers juggling more responsibilities than ever before. The reason? A growing problem with understaffing that is affecting nearly every corner of the campus.
From classrooms to cafeterias, the shortage of teachers and staff is leaving both students and faculty stretched thin. While the issue isn’t unique to our school, its impact is being felt daily.
Based on a survey conducted at the school, around 91% of the students that responded had noticed the understaffing issue at Lebanon Trail. In addition, some students have experienced less aid from their teachers due to the increasing class sizes.
“I think a big issue is the lack of individualized support. Many students rely on those 1-1 conversations and discussions with teachers, but with a lack of staff it’s a lot harder to do that,” a student stated on the survey. “As someone who needs those vital support systems of 1-1 or 1-small group tutoring/teaching, not having that is hurting our learning.”
Teachers themselves are also feeling the strain. With unfilled positions and not enough substitutes, many are being asked to cover additional classes during what used to be their planning periods.
“It’s been tough to get teachers to fill all the positions,” Kaden Tillman, AP Biology teacher said. “Which can get chaotic because we want to make sure that, even if it’s a long term substitute teacher due to not being able to hire a full-time teacher, we have to make sure we’re supporting that sub, and make sure that they are able to keep up with the material that way all students are getting the same level of instruction and educational experiences, that can put a strain on teachers behind the scenes as we make sure they effectively implement [assignments].”
Many other teachers report the same issue; with teachers having to put in extra hours in order to keep up with the increasing student assignments, it’s easier for students to go unassisted.
“The increasing number of students in the class comes with a lot more essays to grade, a lot of assignments to put in the gradebook, it’s a lot of kids to keep track of and it’s easier for kids to fall through the cracks,” Ms. Bullmer, AP Human Geography and AP Government teacher, said.
For now, the school community continues to adapt. However, students and teachers say that without additional staffing and resources, the quality of education will remain at risk.
