WINONA, Minn. – A shortage of teachers and substitute teachers has forced school principals and other staff to take over classes. School Board members Nancy Denzer and Michael Hanratty called the situation serious at a recent Board meeting. Said Hanratty: "We're pulling school counselors and social workers to fill in as substitute teachers." Said Denzer: "Everyone is needed in their positions. And when their positions are not filled, something's not getting done in their world." Winona Schools spokesperson John Casper said education, as in much of the economy, is facing a workforce shortage. Among openings:
Help wanted
John Casper, Schools spokesperson, called for volunteers to help with the teacher shortage. Subbing is a good job for recent college graduates, retired workers looking for extra income, and people who are in between full-time careers, he said. The pay for substitute teachers is $20 an hour. Long-term subs move onto the regular salary schedule.
> Reading tutor: Posted March 9.
> Middle School volleyball coach: June 14.
> Middle School football coach: June 18.
> Substitute teaching assistant: June 28.
> General Education instructor: July 20.
> Behavioral assistant: July 21
> Special education teacher (several): Posted July 21.
> Lunchroom, playground supervisors and crossing guards (several): July 28.
> Special education assistant (several): July 28.
> Middle School coed swim coach: July 29.
> Key Kids attendants (several): July 29.
> Accounting coordinator: August 10.
> Middle School counselor: August 18.
> Student counselor and social worker: August 18.
> Substitute nutritionist: September 8.
> High School assistant girls basketball coach. September 10.
> High School trap adviser: September 16.
> Custodian: Posted September 16.
> Mentoring assistant: September 21.
> Middle School safety specialist: October 1.
> Social studies teacher: October 11.
> Spanish interpreter: October 13.