Story perspectives

Teacher Shortages Force Districts to Seek Online Solutions

3/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Allendale County, South Carolina, faces significant teacher shortages, with about a quarter of its teachers coming from overseas, primarily Jamaica and the Philippines.
Superintendent Vallerie Cave warned that international teachers may leave because visa costs have risen and immigration policies have changed under U.S. President Donald Trump.
Other districts, including Umatilla in Oregon, have struggled to retain international staff.
Some districts have found local replacements.
Many districts are turning to online teaching solutions amid ongoing recruitment challenges in rural areas, exacerbated by the pandemic and financial constraints.

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Story summary

Allendale County, South Carolina, faces significant teacher shortages, with about a quarter of its teachers coming from overseas, primarily Jamaica and the Philippines.
Superintendent Vallerie Cave warned that international teachers may leave because visa costs have risen and immigration policies have changed under U.S. President Donald Trump.
Other districts, including Umatilla in Oregon, have struggled to retain international staff.
Some districts have found local replacements.
Many districts are turning to online teaching solutions amid ongoing recruitment challenges in rural areas, exacerbated by the pandemic and financial constraints.