PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — The 2021-2022 school year has been crippled with staffing issues, from teachers to bus drivers.
In Pasco County, the problems have been so severe they forced the district to change bell times, creating some heated debate between parents and the schools.
School officials are now taking major steps to prevent ongoing staffing shortage problems.
The district has more than 1,200 vacancies it is trying to fill, starting with a job fair at Cypress Creek Middle School on March 23 in Wesley Chapel.
Teachers are in short supply. They are looking to hire more than 680 instructional staff. And because of school bus driver shortages, most kids are starting school after 10 a.m.
Some parents said they have had to change their work schedules and lifestyle just so their child can make it to school.
That’s why at a job fair scheduled for March 23, the district plans to hire workers on the spot.
“Retention has been a challenge, but that’s one of the reasons why we’ve added additional positions to provide that support. In addition, we have a wonderful talent pipeline,” said Pasco Schools Director of Human Resources Kim Carroll. “And this is not just for instructional staff, this is for every employee in Pasco County. If you are looking to stay and grow, Pasco County Schools is the place for you.”
This is Pasco County’s first in-person job fair since the pandemic.
