WORCESTER, Mass. (AP) - Low pay and a strong local economy are creating a shortage of substitute teachers in many Massachusetts school districts.
The Telegram of Worcester reports that substitutes - even those with college degrees and teacher certifications - receive less than $100 per day to fill in for a full day in most Worcester-area communities.
The state’s current minimum wage for all workers is $12 per hour.
Officials say the low compensation and other opportunities presented by a strong job market are making it increasingly difficult for school districts to find substitute teachers.
Worcester Superintendent Maureen Binienda says she would like to increase the $70 daily rate for substitutes. But she says there are too many other budget priorities, including the hiring of more permanent classroom teachers, school psychologists and guidance counselors.
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Information from: Telegram & Gazette (Worcester, Mass.), http://www.telegram.com
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