Texas Gov. Greg Abbott called for the immediate creation of a task force that would look into and address school staffing shortages.
Abbott directed Texas Education Agency Commissioner Mike Morath to look into teacher shortages and develop strategies to address the need in a letter sent Monday.
“Teachers play a critical role in the development and long-term success of our students,” Abbott wrote. “This task force should work diligently to ensure that best practices and resources for recruitment and retention are provided to districts to ensure the learning environment of Texas students is not interrupted by the absence of a qualified teacher.”
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The Republican governor also asked that the task force “research the possibility for flexibility of certification, placement, and hiring.”
“The education of Texas students is critical for the future of all Texans,” Abbott noted. “Highly qualified teachers play a critical role in that education.”
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Abbott’s letter comes as Central Texas schools are struggling to stay open, according to WFAA.
Austin Independent School District reportedly has 120 vacancies and is currently offering incentives for employees who obtain degrees and certifications allowing them to fill current teaching vacancies.
