To find a partial solution to hiring problems, U.S. school districts have hired experienced teachers from other countries in recent years. Willmar joined that group this year, with five teachers.
The need for paraprofessionals is prominent in area school districts, and they need teachers, coaches, drivers and substitutes of all types. It's a problem that affects school districts and many employers, particularly in Minnesota, which has four job openings for each unemployed person.
Along with other school districts in the state and nation, Willmar Public Schools is dealing with staffing shortages before the start of the school year.