BAKERSVILLE — The Mitchell County Board of Education during its regular meeting on Thursday, July 15 received a report form Superintendent Chad Calhoun regarding the need for more educators in Mitchell County.
“There are several positions still open,” Calhoun said. “But we have done very well filling them as we have had close to 40 positions so far filled this summer.”
The school systems has multiple openings including slots for math teachers, school psychologists and physical therapists, Calhoun said.
Calhoun added how important fine arts courses are to the enrichment of students.
“One of our biggest worries is our band and music teachers, we did have another out cut and it is a tough position to fill late in the game,” Calhoun said. “If anyone out there is interested in being a band or music teacher that has certification or is willing to work on certification, please apply because this is a big worry.”
Calhoun said during his time as an educator and principal, he saw firsthand how important fine arts courses are to students.
“I want to see the band and music program grow,” he said. “I saw how many students were influenced positively and kept kids in school because that is something they really related to and we want to find the right people for those jobs.”
Calhoun acknowledged that teaching in the modern era is difficult and added he hopes to one day see teachers paid more.
“It’s tough across the board,” Calhoun said. “You see the salary that is posted and it is truly not the take-home pay that teachers get. I hope that in my career, teacher pay is addressed and up to where it needs to be so there can be more interest in the teaching field.”
Students will return to Mitchell County Schools for the 2021-22 academic year on Aug. 16. Students will attend school in-person five days per week, barring any authorized calendar legislation from the North Carolina General Assembly.
Area schools will continue to follow all state and national guidance regarding COVID-19 and will continue its safety and sanitation protocols throughout local school buildings.