The Special Called Rob. Co. Board of Education meeting held on March 26, 2025, focused on addressing the challenges of substitute teacher recruitment and retention in Tennessee schools. Key discussions revolved around the current fill rates for substitute positions and strategies to improve them.

Board members highlighted that many schools are struggling with low fill rates, particularly in areas marked in yellow on their performance reports. The conversation emphasized the need for targeted recruitment efforts and incentives to attract substitutes to these struggling schools. Various initiatives, such as gift card drawings and gift baskets, were mentioned as part of the efforts to encourage more individuals to take on substitute roles.

A significant point raised was the current shortage of substitutes, with the district aiming for a pool of 350 but only having around 250 available. This shortage directly impacts the ability to fill vacancies, leading to discussions about the reasons behind high turnover rates among substitutes. Exit interviews revealed that pay is a primary factor influencing substitutes' decisions to stay or leave.

The board noted that districts with higher fill rates often offer better compensation. For instance, Hamilton County, which has a low daily pay rate of $59, struggled until a bonus program was implemented to incentivize substitutes who worked multiple days a week. This approach has proven successful in increasing participation.

Additionally, the board discussed the importance of adjusting pay rates for substitutes in specialized roles, such as special education, to fill vacancies more effectively. By offering higher pay for these challenging positions, the district has seen improvements in filling special education vacancies.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing challenges in recruiting and retaining substitute teachers in Tennessee schools. The board is committed to exploring various strategies, including financial incentives and targeted recruitment, to enhance the fill rates and ensure that all classrooms are adequately staffed.