Scott County Schools talk growth, filling teacher positions

SCOTT COUNTY, Ky. (WTVQ) – Teacher shortages are a problem statewide. However, one county says it’s been able to add new staff and new programs despite being one of the fastest growing counties in the state.

Leah McAllister is making history at Stamping Ground Elementary. She’s the school’s first ever full-time art teacher.

“When I saw the posting for the art position, I just knew I needed to try for it,” said McAllister.

An exciting opportunity for Principal Maria Bennett and her students.

“In the past, we were able to touch on all the standards, but we know that Leah’s going to be able to take that program even deeper then it already was,” said Bennett.

The school district currently has a new high school and an elementary school under construction. Superintendent Dr. Kevin Hub says the district’s turnover rate is about 15%. That’s around the state average. However, Scott County has been able to fill new teacher positions.

“We put positive school culture, and relationships with kids at the forefront, and I think when we do that, Scott County Schools becomes a great place to work,” said Hub.

The superintendent also credits the County’s location, government and employers like Toyota for making Scott County Schools an attractive place to work for potential teachers. A district teachers like McAllister have been happy to be apart of as it continues to evolve.

“It’s all about teaching the whole child, not just the standards or the academics,” said McAllister.