Posted on 01/22/22
| News Source: CNN
A new program in New Mexico is streamlining the process to allow state workers and National Guard members to work as substitute teachers and aides as staffing shortages caused by the Omicron variant continue — and that includes Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham.
The governor said that the state has been "woefully short" on educators, so she and others are stepping in.
"States and governments have had to turn on a dime during the pandemic to stand up systems, to provide support to any of our critical, crucial, basic services. There aren't any other options," she said in a CNN interview.
She thinks she'll be placed in an elementary school next week.
The governor said that those participating in the program must go through a background check and safety course beforehand.