Severe teacher shortage hits Paterson schools just before new academic year

PATERSON, New Jersey (WABC) -- Paterson's school district is coping with more than 150 vacant jobs as the first day of classes looms.

New Jersey's third-largest city is taking steps to minimize any disruption the shortage would have.

The superintendent, Dr. Laurie W. Newell, says she will use per diem substitutes and combine classes where appropriate. They'll also use a virtual teaching platform.

Education officials say they're working to recruit more educators. The vacancies represent about 7 percent of teaching positions in K-12.

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