There are nearly 170 positions available across the Daviess County and Owensboro public school districts. Of those, almost 100 are within DCPS and approximately 70 are within OPS. Personnel at both districts are hoping the benefit packages can help recruit employees for the wide range of openings.
The position types vary widely and include certified postings (ex. teachers, counselors, and administration), classified postings (ex. maintenance, instructional assistants, food service workers, and transportation), and postings that are continuous throughout the year (ex. substitutes and coaches).
DCPS said that their greatest need is in support staff.
“We feel we are in a very good place with our certified teaching/administration positions at this time,” said Amy Shutt, assistant superintendent of human services. “Our greatest need is the support staff positions: bus drivers, bus monitors, instructional assistants, custodians and food service.”
OPS drew attention to the certified positions.
“All of the positions in our district are crucial to student success,” said Jared Revelett, public information officer. “The classroom teachers and instructional assistant positions are probably a top priority because they have the most interaction with our students and we have several of those open this year.”
Both school districts said that this amount of postings is normal for this time of year.
Although both school districts feel that they are in a good position at the moment, Revlett noted that it has become harder to recruit teachers.
“It’s definitely becoming harder to find teachers as the number of students going into education as a career has declined in the last decade,” Revelett said. “School districts are having to become more creative to find ways to recruit teachers. This is one of the reasons why our district started the ‘Grow Your Own’ program to try and find alternative ways to get individuals certified to teach.”
DCPS and OPS officials said there are strong benefits that come with working for the school system.
“In addition to things like health, dental, vision, life, and various supplemental insurance plans, all full-time employees are also enrolled in a state retirement plan that is an added benefit you don’t find at most employers anymore,” Revlett said regarding OPS. “Our district has also continued to raise salaries across the board, including market adjustments for certain positions, in order to remain one of the highest-paying districts in our region, regardless of the position you hold in the district.”
Shutt mentioned the insurance and work environment that DCPS provides.
“Benefits include a rich state insurance plan as well as optional insurance through DCPS, a great environment, and excellent work hours,” Shutt said. “Working in the school system provides an opportunity to make a difference every day and creates a great work-life balance situation.”
To find more information about the positions available or to apply, click here for DCPS or click here for OPS.
