District Raises Rates For Substitute Teachers

The Crawford County R-1 School District has increased wages to attract substitute teachers.

Certified teachers now receive $115 per day, which is higher than other neighboring districts.

The daily rate for substitute teachers without a degree is $100.

Bourbon will offer $90 per day to aide or paraprofessional substitutes.

“We’re above Sullivan by $5,” remarked Superintendent Dr. Gibbs during the school board’s Aug. 26 meeting. “We’re jumping ahead.”

Gibbs said the higher rate also leaves room to grow.

Between raising rates and recent changes made by the State Board of Education, the substitute teacher pool could potentially be deeper.

A rule was approved in August that lowered the requirements for those seeking a substitute teaching certificate.

Applicants will be given the choice between the standard 60 hours of college credit hours or 20 hours of online training to obtain a certificate at the end of the calendar year.

Missouri schools are reportedly struggling to fill substitute teaching positions.

The state temporarily approved lowering the requirements last year, but it is now permanent.

Bourbon also continues to search for bus drivers. The district increased wage rates for drivers. A driver can earn $14 to $16 per hour, depending on mileage.

A $500 sign-on bonus also is being offered.

The district is offering drivers fully paid health insurance/dental benefits, a four-day school week, a minimum of 16 hours per week and training.

Transportation secretary Jessica Becker told the Independent News in August that many applicants were looking for more than 16 hours per week, so the district is offering additional duties beyond driving.