ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The Florida Education Association said shortages of support staff in schools have reached critical levels.
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The association is backing a new bill that hopes to address some of the issues.
The Florida Education Association this week noted thousands of advertised openings including paraprofessionals, food service, bus drivers, maintenance and custodians.
A bill making its way through Tallahassee would require districts to identify severe shortages and fund ways to attract and keep staff.
The senate bill also requires that districts provide paraprofessionals with career development opportunities. Its next stop is the Senate Appropriations Committee.
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