New Mexico has had a teacher shortage for years, but it has only gotten worse as a result of the pandemic. Substitute teachers are part of the shortfall, and it’s having a huge influence on the classrooms.

“Because there aren’t enough subs to fill in when instructors are absent,” the superintendent of Albuquerque Public Schools explained, “other teachers, administrators, and principals are occasionally forced to step in to help.”

The teacher shortage isn’t just affecting APS. It’s a state-wide problem that existed prior to the pandemic, but the Covid-19 hasn’t helped fill roles, especially replacements.