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Nationwide numbers for the current teacher shortage are still being calculated, however, Covid-19 might be exacerbating the teacher shortage, say experts studying the issue. (Photo: Crixells Matthews/VPM News)
For former fifth grade teacher Brandy Samberg, the coronavirus pandemic wasn’t the root cause of her decision to leave the teaching profession after six years, but it did help push her out the door.
“I left in the long run because of COVID,” Samberg says. “Just with concerns of my own kids being in virtual school and needing that assistance, especially with my girls starting kindergarten at the same time. I knew from my experience and then [from] virtually teaching last year, it made work life balance really impossible.”
The school’s operating budget for fiscal year 2022 is an increase of more than $55 million from a year ago. The district says there’s an almost $40 million gap, which they hope the state or county can fill.
Chesterfield Changes Course, Beginning In-Person Classes
Secondary students, like those who attend Clover Hill High School, may not head back to school buildings until February. But elementary students in Chesterfield County got the go-ahead to return to a five day in-person class schedule. (Photo: Ian Stewart/VPM News)
Prior to Tuesday’s school board meeting, Superintendent Merv Daugherty sent a letter to parents laying out a proposal to return elementary students to full time, in-person learning. He outlined how the next semester should look for the over 60,000 students if the board approves his request.
By a vote of 4 to 1, they did, with Dot Heffron being the lone hold out. Newly elected board Chair Ryan Harter says the board has followed the most recent and available information and relied on medical professionals to help guide their decisions.