That has created

a demand for classroom teachers in several areas, including elementary

grades, and high school math and science courses.

"In order

to maintain our board's goal of a 20-to-1 student-teacher ratio in primary

grades, we need seven additional teachers over our projected number,"

said Blake Bass, assistant superintendent for administrative services.

With the statewide

teacher shortage, Bass feels that finding seven qualified teachers at

this time of the year will be challenging.

"We hired

a great many of our teachers last April and May," said Bass. "We

hope that, along with the growth of our student population, we have had

certified teachers move here as well.

"If that's

the case, we would like for them to call 770-254-2803 and inquire about

job openings," he said.

Bass said that

the school system is still accepting Teach for Georgia applications through

today for in-field secondary school positions.

"Our greatest

need at this time is in secondary math and science," he said.