ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The Florida Education Association said shortages of support staff in schools have reached critical levels.

>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<

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.

READ: Orange County Public Schools will no longer provide excused absences due to increased COVID-19 cases

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.

READ: Orlando police officers released from hospital after possible fentanyl exposure

VIDEO: OCPS reinstates mask requirement for all adults OCPS reinstates mask requirement for all adults

Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.