Northern Lights School Division looking for more teachers

Young said in his experience he doesn’t recall there being an issue with a teacher shortage over the past 10 years to this extent before.

He added the issue may likely impact future planning for the division.

“Perhaps, it’s something that we need to give some more thought to, in terms of a recruitment and retention plan for teachers in our system,” he said. “It’s also my understanding in talking to colleagues there are other teacher shortages in B.C. and Ontario and the Arctic and Nunavut and so on.”

Young said while the division is in a “semi-remote location,” for some prospective teachers this detail could be a selling feature if they want to be close to the outdoors, and enjoy lake-front accessibility. He added there is also a strong Métis population.

“I see those as all advantages to that, but there are also disadvantages of not being in an urban location, where you are close to all the amenities that most people are used to,” he said. “But I’m always a guy who looks at a glass half-full. Our communities have lots to offer that couldn’t be had elsewhere. I think it’s a matter of how people want to frame the experience for themselves, and take away the positives that come with teaching in our system if they choose to do that.”

To fill the gaps from the teacher shortage now, the division is taking teachers who work in other areas of the schools, such as resource-room teachers, and putting them in classrooms to meet the need temporarily. Principals and vice-principals may also be filling in for classroom duties as well until more teachers are hired.

Young said he appreciates the division’s existing staff members for stepping up to help during this challenging period.

“I’m very thankful to our staff who have shown patience, professionalism and flexibility during this time,” he said. “We are grateful to teachers who have joined our team, locally, in our province, and across Canada.”

If prospective teachers are interested in applying for any of the positions available they can look at the division’s website here for more details.

angela.brown@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @battlefordsNOW

by Angela Brown

Northern Lights School Division looking for more teachers

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