With class back in session, Texas schools continue to encounter challenges trying to recruit teachers. Here's how Liberty Hill ISD is handling the situation.
LIBERTY HILL, Texas — With the school year now in full swing at Liberty Hill ISD, about 120 new teachers are filling district halls. This year, the district is hosting its new teacher academy, where teachers can get familiar with technology and special programs.
"I would say in 1997 is when I first decided that I wanted to be a teacher," Liberty Hill ISD teacher Michelle Calabresi said.
Calabresi worked as a paraprofessional for five years at Liberty Hill ISD before becoming a teacher. She earned her degree in 2024 and helps students in the special education department who struggle in the classroom.
"Whether it's through using a picture, using sign language, or just using their own voice to say, 'Hey, I'm not OK, and I need a little extra help, or I need some time.' That's what I'm hoping to be able to do to help these kids," Calabresi said.
Interim Superintendent Travis Motal welcomes the new and fresh energy, especially as some Texas teachers quit their jobs.
"Every year, it seems to get a little harder and that there are less and less people going into the teaching profession," Motal said.
While Motal feels positive about the recruiting done in Liberty Hill ISD, August Plock – an 11th grade teacher at Pflugerville High School – said his big concern for Texas schools is hiring certified teachers with experience.
"Most of your teachers are coming into the profession are nontraditional teachers. So, either they're changing careers or they've gone through an alternative certification program," Plock said.
Plock worries about what will happen when a good portion of state teachers – including himself – retire.
"Are we preparing in the next five years to replace one third of the teachers in the state of Texas? And I would say no, we are not prepared for this and it's going to create confusion, more chaos," Plock said.
As Plock hopes to see more teachers enter and stay in the profession, Calabresi agrees that it's still a calling worth pursuing.
"I have a big heart, and I have a heart for it. And I'm all about loving the kids and giving them their voice and helping them be successful no matter what they do," Calabresi said.
The district returned to the classroom on Aug. 12, starting the new school year with a hybrid four-day schedule.