Clark County School District shops for 1,700 new teachers

At least 1,700 teachers are expected to be hired for the 2013-2014 school year, lowering average class sizes by two students in the Clark County School District, officials announced Thursday.

Currently, average class sizes are at an all-time high of 34 students in primary grades and 38 students in high schools.

The district is able to hire the teachers because of a recent arbitration decision that froze teacher salaries, saving $23 million for the upcoming school year. In arbitration hearings, district officials promised to use the savings to hire more teachers.

More funding is also expected because of an anticipated increase of 1,500 students, meaning more dollars through per student funding. Currently, enrollment stands at about 311,400 students.

Deputy Superintendent Pat Skorkowsky said the hiring will be a huge undertaking and needs to commence immediately. Teachers from other districts are about to wrap up their existing contracts.

Special attention will be paid to find teachers for hard-to-fill positions, such as math, science and special education.

Contact reporter Trevon Milliard at tmilliard@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0279.