Santa Rosa board approves hiring international teachers on J‑1 visas to fill hard‑to‑staff classes

The Santa Rosa City Schools Board of Education on Aug. 27 approved using an international teacher placement program to hire experienced educators on J‑1 cultural‑exchange visas to fill multiple hard‑to‑staff vacancies.

District staff told the board the program — run by a private sponsor, identified in the meeting as “IAG” — places experienced teachers from countries including Ghana, Cameroon and Colombia. The board approved the measure on a roll‑call vote after discussion and questions from trustees; one member voted no.

District officials said the hires address long‑standing vacancies in subjects such as chemistry, math, science and special education. “These are teachers that have at least three years’ experience, but some upwards of 15, 20 years’ experience,” a district staff member told the board. The staff member said the agency sponsors the teachers’ J‑1 visas, assists with housing and orientation and provides ongoing professional development.

Why the decision matters

Filling those positions with experienced teachers can affect classroom stability and course offerings, the district said. Board members also pressed staff about costs, benefits and supervisory…