Former Teacher Exposes Issues with EDUStaff and ESS Employment Practices in Oregon

During a recent meeting of the Oregon Senate Committee on Education, significant concerns were raised regarding the employment practices of EDUStaff and ESS, two organizations that provide staffing for schools in the state. A former educator shared her personal experiences, highlighting the precarious nature of employment with these agencies and the impact on teachers' livelihoods.

The educator recounted her journey with EDUStaff, which she described as the primary avenue for substitute teaching in Oregon since its introduction in 2017. She expressed frustration over the lack of job security, noting that employees can be dismissed with little notice or explanation. This uncertainty has left many educators, particularly those relying on the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), facing financial difficulties in their later years.

In her testimony, she detailed a troubling incident where she lost her job after being mischaracterized as yelling at students while teaching from the floor due to an injury. This incident, she argued, illustrates the lack of support and understanding from the staffing agencies and school districts, which can lead to abrupt job loss without proper recourse.

The educator also discussed her experience with ESS, where she faced repercussions for wearing a button supporting inclusivity and anti-discrimination. She described how a student's complaint led to her job being threatened, emphasizing the challenges educators face when trying to advocate for a supportive environment for all students.

These testimonies underscore a growing concern among educators about the practices of staffing agencies in Oregon's schools. The committee's discussions reflect a need for greater accountability and support for teachers, particularly those working through these organizations. As the state continues to navigate educational staffing challenges, the voices of educators like this former teacher highlight the urgent need for reform to ensure job security and a supportive teaching environment.