Charleston County School District responds to national substitute teacher shortage

CHARLESTON COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD)—Charleston County School District officials have responded to teacher concerns about a national substitute teacher shortage, saying that although there is a national shortage, the district’s substitute situation is above average.

News 2 previously reported concerns from Charleston County teachers who said the lack of pay and student behavioral issues could make it difficult for districts to find substitutes. These issues, they believe, are contributing to the nationwide shortage.

Andy Pruitt, Director of Communications for CCSD, said the district has a 92% fill rate when a substitute is needed, which Pruitt says is the same as pre-pandemic numbers.

The district has a pool of 1,483 substitutes to call when in need, which district officials say is an all-time high number.

Charleston County utilizes Kelly Services, an employment agency, to fill substitute positions. The agency sent the following statement:

By recruiting year-round, we are able to meet and exceed fluctuating demands throughout the school year. Our current substitute talent pool stands 20% above our partnership goal. In addition, substitute teaching through Kelly Education offers numerous benefits, including flexible scheduling, weekly pay, comprehensive training, and professional development opportunities. Our substitutes play a crucial role in maintaining students’ educational continuity, and we support our substitutes with the resources necessary for their success and satisfaction in this rewarding career.

Certified teacher substitutes who are needed on a daily basis receive $150 a day, while teacher substitutes with a high school diploma receive $130 a day. Substitutes needed for a long-term basis who are certified receive the same as the daily teacher rate. Non-certified get $175 a day and those with a high-school diploma get $150, according to Kelly Services.

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