Monterey County school districts in search of new teachers

MONTEREY, Calif. (KION) Monterey County school districts are on the hunt for new teachers ahead of the upcoming academic year.

The Monterey County Office of Education hosted their annual Spring Teacher Recruitment Fair at Hartnell College, Saturday.

The fair provided an opportunity for candidates to connect with 16 school districts in Monterey County. Some candidates were invited to participate in on-the-spot interviews.

"Every candidate that walks in the door is excited to be here. Our districts are excited to talk to them. There has been over 60 interviews conducted, today. It's not about the number of candidates that walk in the door, but whether they're quality," said Monterey County Office of Education Chief Human Resources Officer, Leigh Butler.

Butler said the impact of the national teacher shortage has been felt in Monterey County. She added that a lack of affordable housing has contribute to districts' struggle to hire, and retain, qualified candidates.

District officials said they are in most need of candidates who can teach special education, math and science.

Although this fair happens only once a year, schools said they are looking to hire new staff year round.