Kelley Education reports significant growth in substitute placements across North Carolina schools

The Nash County Public Schools Board of Education meeting on May 1, 2025, highlighted significant advancements in substitute teacher staffing and training, reflecting a commitment to maintaining educational continuity in the district.

During the meeting, representatives from Kelly Education presented impressive statistics regarding their partnership with Nash County. Over the past four years, the fill rate for substitute teacher positions has seen a remarkable increase, reaching 96.61% in the current school year. This translates to over 13,000 absences filled, showcasing the effectiveness of their staffing solutions. The program has also expanded its pool of substitutes, hiring 227 new individuals this year alone, bringing the total to 370 substitutes available for daily assignments.

The presentation emphasized the rigorous training that substitutes undergo before entering classrooms. All substitutes are required to complete a two-hour virtual training course covering essential topics such as classroom management, emergency preparedness, and student well-being. Additional training is provided for those working with special education and pre-kindergarten students, ensuring that all substitutes are well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of students.

Feedback from school administrators underscored the positive impact of this partnership. Principals and treasurers expressed appreciation for the professionalism and responsiveness of Kelly Education staff, noting that the system has significantly eased the workload for school personnel. Testimonials highlighted the reliability of substitutes, which has contributed to a smoother operation within schools, particularly during times of increased absenteeism.

The meeting also addressed the importance of maintaining high standards for substitute teachers, with a clear process in place for monitoring performance and addressing any issues that arise. This proactive approach ensures that the quality of education remains a top priority, even in the face of staffing challenges.

As Nash County Public Schools continues to navigate the complexities of educational staffing, the collaboration with Kelly Education stands out as a model for effectively managing substitute teacher needs. The board's commitment to enhancing educational experiences for students is evident in these ongoing efforts, which aim to provide consistent and quality instruction across the district.