List of Critical Shortages in Schools Shows Opportunities for Retirees

Apr 27, 2016

The Michigan Department of Education recently released its list of documented education-related employee shortages, clearing the path for retirees qualified in those disciplines to return to work in schools without jeopardizing their pensions.

The law allowing retirees with in-demand skills to return to work in schools was signed by Gov. Rick Snyder last December. Under the law, the MDOE is responsible for compiling a list of disciplines in short supply based on reporting from school districts. 

The Academic Year 2016-17 Critical Shortage Disciplines for Employment of Retirees includes substitute teachers in all disciplines, bus drivers, career and technical education teachers and paraeducators, world language teachers, pre-K teachers and paraeducators, and communications arts teachers. 

In addition, districts experiencing regional shortages can submit a written request to the Superintendent of Public Instruction to add a discipline to the listing. Questions about implementation of the retiree benefit provisions of the legislation should be directed to the Office of Retirement Services.  From MEA Voice