Lakeville School District confronts staffing shortages with tiered licensing and contractors

The Lakeville Public School District Board of Education meeting on April 8, 2025, focused on the pressing issue of staffing shortages that have significantly impacted the district's ability to provide adequate educational services, particularly in special education. The meeting highlighted the reliance on tiered licensing and contractors to fill critical roles, especially as the demand for qualified staff continues to outpace availability.

Director Thompson reported that the district is currently utilizing tier 1 and tier 2 licenses, which allow teachers to work outside their licensure fields. For instance, there is one tier 1 teacher in early childhood education and several positions filled by out-of-field staff. This situation is not ideal but necessary to ensure that special education services are provided to students who need them. The district has also faced challenges in hiring full-time school psychologists, leading to a reliance on virtual contractors for assessments and evaluations.

The board discussed the difficulties in attracting qualified candidates, particularly for specialized roles such as speech language pathologists and school psychologists. Director Carbone inquired about potential incentives to draw talent to the district, acknowledging the competitive nature of these positions statewide. While no specific incentive program is currently in place, the district is open to exploring creative solutions to attract qualified staff.

The meeting underscored the ongoing staffing challenges across all grade levels, with contractors and virtual staff filling many roles. This reliance, while addressing immediate needs, raises concerns about continuity and consistency in student support. The district is committed to proactively securing staff for the upcoming fall to reduce dependence on contractors and ensure that students receive the necessary support and services.

In conclusion, the Lakeville Public School District is facing significant staffing shortages that require immediate attention and innovative solutions to maintain the quality of education and support for its students. The board's discussions reflect a commitment to addressing these challenges as they prepare for the next academic year.