Across Ohio, school districts are dealing with a darned if they do, darned if they don’t scenario in which sticking with in-person, in-building schooling has created nearly as many challenges as going fully remote did last year. Staffing shortages range from bus drivers to substitute teachers, with an administrator in Canton telling one media outlet the need for substitute teachers in every district is far outweighing those willing to work.

In Cuyahoga Falls, the superintendent told a WJKW reporter that in addition to needing teachers in classrooms and drivers for buses, there is also a problem with food service.

Locally we have heard similar stories, particularly about the difficulty in finding substitute teachers. Some districts have tried financial incentives to fill the spots, with some success — but increased pay is not sustainable.

School districts all over the Buckeye State will have to come up with something. The kinds of disruptions caused by a lack of teachers, substitutes and support staff can be just as damaging to some kids as remote learning might be to others. Either way, we’re not doing right by our kids.

School districts are going to have to get creative if we are to avoid another nearly lost year for Ohio students.