The AFT on Dec. 16 launched a 23-member national task force “to tackle widespread educator and support staff shortages imperiling the future of public schools and public education,” according to a press release.
“Teachers’ working conditions are students’ learning conditions,” AFT President Randi Weingarten said in the release. “Even before COVID, nurses, guidance counselors, teachers, support staff and bus drivers were facing daunting workloads and a lack of respect. And layoffs at the start of the pandemic, the virus’ malaise, political brawling over the teaching of honest history, and the challenge of this school year have made the current situation even worse.”
The AFT Teacher and School Staff Shortage Task Force will look into causes and propose solutions for districts facing extreme shortages. The task force will hold virtual and in-person meetings of its members, as well as conduct listening sessions with rank-and-file members. A report is expected to be released in July at the AFT convention in Boston.