Missouri Law Makes it Easier for Retired Teachers to Return to Classrooms in Joplin
A new law in Missouri is designed to alleviate the substitute teacher shortage by making it easier for retired teachers to return to the classroom. The law aims to address the challenge many school districts like Joplin face in recruiting substitute teachers.
Senate Bill 68 and its Impact
Senate Bill 68, which took effect a month ago, extends special provisions that allow retired teachers to serve as substitute teachers without significantly impacting their retirement benefits. Previously, restrictions on earnings while subbing could negatively affect a retiree's benefits.
Joplin Schools' Perspective
Justin Crawford, the HR Director for Joplin Schools, expressed enthusiasm for the new law. "We love it when we have retired teachers not only from our district but other districts that want to come into our schools. Because they do have that pedagogy background. The instructional, all those years in the classroom. So there’s a great deal of experience they bring to the table that we love to take advantage of if we can," said Crawford.
Substitute Teacher Numbers and Goals
The Joplin school district currently has around 300 qualified substitute teachers. School leaders are hoping to increase this number by approximately 50 to better meet the needs of the district.
