Gadsden ISD partners with EduStaff to enhance substitute teacher program

The Gadsden Independent School District (GISD) held a school board meeting on February 28, 2025, focusing on new partnerships aimed at enhancing the district's substitute teacher program and employee wellness initiatives.

The meeting commenced with a discussion led by Superintendent Dempsey, who introduced two significant partnerships designed to improve staffing and support for substitutes. The first partnership is with EduStaff, a third-party staffing provider that will take over the management of the district's substitute teacher program. This collaboration aims to increase the number of available substitutes and improve the fill rate, which currently stands at 90%. EduStaff will handle recruitment, training, and compliance, allowing substitutes to work up to five days a week, a change from the previous limit of four days. Amy Dawson, a representative from EduStaff, detailed the benefits of this partnership, including enhanced training and support for substitutes, as well as the introduction of a local district manager to oversee operations.

The board members expressed enthusiasm about the potential for improved services and benefits for substitutes, including health plans and retirement options. Questions were raised regarding the transition of current substitutes to EduStaff employees, which will occur through a planned orientation process. The board also discussed the importance of bilingual training materials to ensure inclusivity.

Following the discussion on substitutes, the meeting shifted to the introduction of a new wellness program for GISD employees, in partnership with RethinkEd and RethinkCare. This initiative aims to address employee burnout and promote mental well-being through a platform offering resources and training on various wellness topics. Angela Matlock from RethinkEd presented the program, highlighting its accessibility for all staff members, including instructional assistants and support staff. The program includes on-demand training modules and resources focused on personal and professional development, with an emphasis on mental health and work-life balance.

Board members acknowledged the importance of supporting staff well-being and expressed a desire for ongoing updates on the effectiveness of both the substitute program and the wellness initiative. The meeting concluded with a commitment to monitor the progress of these partnerships and their impact on the district's staffing and employee satisfaction.

Overall, the GISD school board meeting underscored the district's proactive approach to enhancing educational support through strategic partnerships, aiming to create a more robust and supportive environment for both substitutes and full-time staff.