School started Thursday with Manteca Unified “short’ 36 teachers.

It doesn’t mean, however, there weren’t qualified teachers in those 36 classrooms

The district was able to fill the positions with a combination of long-term substitutes that also includes retired teachers and reassigning teachers on special assignment back to the classroom.

“(Manteca Unified) places the needs of students first by placing credentialed classroom staffing at the highest level of priority,” noted Director of Certificated Personnel Anthony Chapman.

To find fulltime teachers to fill the positions the district is conducting an educators job fair on Thursday, Aug. 8, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the district office.

Manteca Unified is seeking to fill 18 multiple subject openings, 11 special education openings, and seven single subject openings

MUSD is in a better position than some nearby districts thanks in part of is competitive benefits and salaries, comprehensive mentorship program and support for new teachers, state-of-the-art classrooms, and campuses as well as ongoing professional development for all employees.

Prospective teachers much apply online via Ed Join by Aug. 4 to be considered for an interview at the job fair.

The district hired 101 credentialed teachers before the start of the school year. That included 56 multiple subject teachers, 33 single subject teachers, and 12 special education teachers.

MUSD also hired 13 credentialed support staff — speech therapists, school psychologists, school counselors, and teachers on special assignment — as well as seven administrators.

The 121 positions hired as of July 24 reflect new hires and doesn’t include internal movement.

The district has also hired 62 substitutes since April 1.

To contact Dennis Wyatt, email dwyatt@mantecabuletin.com