A new report shows the statewide teacher shortage is felt most acutely in districts with lots of low-income students. But it's also hitting rural and wealthier districts.
Williamsfield is a village halfway between Peoria and Galesburg, with fewer than 300 students. Superintendent Tim Farquer says he can't find teachers who meet state licensing requirements for every subject. Instead, he's filing paperwork seeking waivers.
"What we're hopeful for is that folks will realize that this is an emergency situation, and that districts and potential candidates need immediate licensure relief to increase the number of quality applicants on the market."
Only about a third of his students are low-income. The shortage is even worse at lower-income schools.
