Beautiful living area in the Florida Keys – Courtesy: Shutterstock – Photo By travelview
In order to recruit teachers in time for the new school year, Florida Keys schools are using a tried-and-true pitch: “Come work in paradise.”
“Picture yourself enjoying the best sunsets in the world every night and using your weekends to finally get some much-needed rest and relaxation,” the Monroe County School District says on its website. “From crystal clear waters to the thriving community to up-close encounters with sea life — living like a local is just better here.”
However, paradise comes with a price. One of the most costly places to live in Florida is Monroe County.
However, in an effort to fill the gap, the Keys public school district has resorted to social media, giving signing bonuses and relaxing restrictions by not needing instant state certification. It also claims to have the highest beginning salary in the state for teachers in public schools. The time frame is limited. Both the new teacher training program and the start of classes are this week. What you need to know about the hiring drive and the needs are as follows:
What do Florida teachers get paid?
The Monroe School District reports that the starting pay range for teachers in the Keys is between $61,500 and $97,700. In contrast, new public school teachers in Miami-Dade and Broward typically earn roughly $49,000.
How much does it cost to live in the Keys?
There is a financial justification for the greater teacher salary. Living in the Keys is far more expensive than it is on the mainland. Cost of a house: According to the most recent U.S. Census figures, the median gross rent in the Keys is $1,782 per month, and the typical home’s value is $613,400. According to the Census, the typical gross monthly rent in Miami-Dade is $1,470, and the average property is worth $332,800. Likewise, Broward received $299,700 and $1,503 in that order.
How many people, teachers, and students are in the keys?
The Florida Keys has 8,890 students, compared to 328,589 in Miami-Dade and 260,235 in Broward, and significantly fewer schools.
Lack of teachers: According to Amber Acevedo, a spokesperson for the Monroe County School District, before children return to school on August 10, administrators are trying to employ 28 teachers for the Keys’ 10 public schools, six charter schools, and 10 paraprofessionals. According to Acevedo, the Keys school district has 650 teachers on duty, however the exact number changes depending on student enrollment and need.
What skills are required of new teachers?
Degree and teacher certification: According to the district, it will cooperate with bachelor’s degree holders who lack teacher certification. Not accredited? No issue, we will assist you in meeting the requirements, the district claims on its website.
Visit keysschools.com for more details about employment opportunities with the Monroe County School District.
Stories that matter are our priority. At Florida Insider, we make sure that the information we provide our readers is accurate, easy-to-read, and informative. Whether you are interested in business, education, government, history, sports, real estate, nature or travel: we have something for everyone. Follow along for the best stories in the Sunshine State.
Born and raised in South Florida, Krystal is a recent graduate from the University of Miami with professional writing experience at the collegiate and national news outlet levels. She’s a foodie who loves all things travel, the beach, & visiting new places throughout Florida.