By David Nichols
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LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — With students heading back to classrooms across the state, Kentucky is facing a major teacher shortage.
In fact, Kentucky education officials say more than 2,000 positions remain unfilled.
Officials are working to address the shortage through alternative certification methods.
Kentucky education officials say the teacher shortage has become critical. The issue is caused by teachers leaving the field and fewer college students pursuing education degrees.
According to KentuckyTeacher.org, the number of college students pursuing an education degree has dropped by more than 13 percent over the last five years.
State officials are trying to bring more teachers into the system.
Education Commissioner Wayne Lewis said some recruitment efforts include programs such as Teach For America, working with universities on alternative certification routes and hiring based on work experience.
In Fayette County, officials say there are about 370 open positions for teachers. Schools in Lexington start next week.