The Jamaica Teachers Association [JTA] has painted a grim picture of the shortage of specialist teachers across all schools and believes more must be done to attract and keep them.
 
According to Leighton Johnson, the newly installed president of the Jamaica Teachers’ Association (JTA), specialist teachers are leaving in droves due to the unattractive salary package offered by the Government.

Mr Johnson elaborated on Tuesday, again that there are concerns that some subjects may not be offered when the new academic year begins on September 4.
 
He explained that there is a shortage of teachers in all technical and vocational subjects: mechanical engineering, building technology (woods), metalwork and welding, electrical installation, and plumbing.

Mr. Johnson said the JTA is prepared to take action if the Government does not adequately address educators’ concerns about the payment of retroactive salaries or payment recalculations by the end of September.

Johnson was speaking with journalists on the second day of the JTA’s 59th annual conference in Negril, Westmoreland.