Many Missouri K through 12 schools have had a persistent shortage of full-time teachers, substitute teachers, and bus drivers. Kelli Hopkins with the Missouri School Boards’ Association says the COVID-19 outbreak could cause an even greater shortage this upcoming school year, especially with substitute bus drivers.

To address social distancing guidelines, more buses and drivers could be required to transport kids – possibly leading to some class schedules being staggered more.

The changes could be a financial headache for many districts, especially the ones already facing money problems.