FAYETTE COUNTY, Ga. — The shortage of substitute teachers is so severe in one county that they are turning bus drivers into substitute teachers.

The Fayette County School District said they will train drivers who want the opportunity to do both jobs.

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So far, nearly two dozen drivers have signed up to learn more about substitute teaching jobs. Many have a 5-hour window between their morning and afternoon bus routes.

Channel 2′s Tyisha Fernandes heard from parents, some who agree with the program and others who don’t.

“I don’t think it’s a good idea,” Anitra Garrett said.

“I guess if they get certified, get some training. I mean they handle them on the bus. They could be good substitute teachers,” Erica Zamores said.

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The pandemic has nearly every industry struggling with employment shortages. The school district says they are not exempt from that.

Even though some say it’s a good opportunity for both the drivers and school district, they told Fernandes they are surprised shortages have come to this.

“I always thought there would be plenty of substitutes for the classrooms,” Winston Murray said.

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