My name is Matt Evensen and I work in Fargo Public Schools. I'm writing this letter in response to the many articles recently published about the shortage of substitute teachers and paraeducators in our local schools. Yes, there is a shortage. Yes, it is very hard. What is important for the public to remember is that your local schools are still providing high quality instruction to every student that walks into those buildings. What is important is knowing that each and every day there are teachers who are going above and beyond to fill the vacancy gaps and ensure that students are supported in every way.
Principals, assistant principals, dean of students, classroom teachers, office staff, counselors, data and success coaches, gifted services, small group math and reading teachers, ELL teachers, and every other teacher that you can imagine that works in a school. Every single day being presented with the challenge of not enough staff and every single day finding ways to make it work.
Like my building principal has said: We have a 100% track record for conquering challenges.
Matt Evensen lives in Fargo.
This letter does not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Forum's editorial board nor Forum ownership.
