Back to school has been a bit bumpy for one school district in New Jersey. Jersey City, like many districts nationwide, is struggling to cope with an ongoing teacher shortage.
Now, the district has decided to turn to remote teachers to keep its classrooms functioning smoothly. Jersey City has struggled to fill certain positions in its schools, especially in high school general education and special education.
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New Jersey Public Schools’ superintendent emphasized that since the pandemic, retaining teachers has become increasingly challenging. Many educators have moved to better paying districts, or left the profession altogether. Fewer students are choosing to become teachers as well.
Jersey City will use an online program to help fill the gap in high school classrooms. Certified teachers will conduct live virtual lessons, while a substitute teacher remains physically present in the classroom to assist students.
Officials say this approach allows for a mix of in-person and virtual instruction. the program is expected to be implemented in all four of Jersey City’s comprehensive high schools. The Jersey City Board of Education just approved the program in its August meeting, with a budget of $578,000.
