Gilmer County School System is hiring for a wide range of positions, especially special education teachers, in the midst of a national shortage.
“We have had an increase in [student] numbers and just based on the increase, by default we also have an increase in the need for teachers,” GCSS Director of Student Services Jessica Chastain said. “Statewide, and even nationwide, special education is an area where there appears to be a shortage of teachers available.”
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), during the 2023-24 school year, more than half of public schools across the country reported a shortage in SPED teachers.
When asked what she believes is the reason for the shortage, Chastain answered that it may be caused by an increase in the overall need for special education services in the classroom.
NCES reported that 15 percent of U.S. students received SPED services during the 2022-23 school year under the Individuals with Disability Education Act (IDEA). During the 2012-13 school year, that number was 13 percent.
IDEA is a law that guarantees free and appropriate public education to children with disabilities. It also requires students to be educated with their nondisabled peers whenever possible.
“The special education teachers play a critical role in providing individualized support, and fostering inclusion, to help every child reach their full potential,” Chastain went on to say.
She explained that GCSS offers ample professional learning opportunities and resources, to ensure success in their special education environments and classrooms.
“Our schools are seeking passionate, dedicated teachers to join the team that will make meaningful differences in the lives of students and their futures,” Chastain stated.
Beyond SPED teachers, GCSS is hiring general teachers, paraprofessionals, substitutes, bus drivers, custodial staff and more.
In a small community with mountain views, GCSS Superintendent Dr. Brian Ridley expressed his appreciation for the work culture at their five schools.
“We do get a lot of applications from people who are tired of the more urban environments that are looking for something a little bit more rural,” Dr. Ridley said. “People want to go ahead and buy that mountain home and come up here and we’d love to have them.”
GCSS offers a wide range of benefits including medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, retirement and more.
“We do pay a percentage of employee’s health benefits as well,” Nicole Pike, Gilmer County Schools director of Human Resources, said.
Beyond SPED-certified teachers, any extra certifications are a plus for potential applicants, Ridley noted. They are always looking for teachers that are ESOL certified, meaning they can teach English to nonnative speakers, or are certified to teach “gifted” students.
To learn more about careers with GCSS, people can attend the job fair happening next Wednesday, Jan. 29, from 5 to 7 p.m.. It will be at their central office, located at 134 Industrial Blvd. in Ellijay.
Interested applicants must register for the event beforehand, by filling out a Google form linked on the GCSS Facebook page.