Administrators in the Port Angeles School District are warning of a "critical" shortage of staff that could have dire consequences. Ten-percent of the district's classroom positions are vacant, leaving teachers feeling like they have no choice but to go to work. "It's like I'd have to be hospital sick to not show up to work," said Dry Creek Elementary School teacher Kailee Lanier. Teachers, paraeducators and substitutes are all in short supply. Until recently, the district had 31 unfilled positions. That number is down to about 16, but officials say it's still too high. Lanier agrees. "Everyone has emergencies. Everyone gets sick. Kids get sick. Adults get sick, too. It's important we have someone available to come support our kids if the teacher is not here," Lanier said. At certain times, schools in Port Angeles have had to cancel classes and shuffle students to other teachers, creating classrooms of up to 30 kids. If one person calls in sick the ripple effects can be tidal, meaning entire classes could be closed. "That impacts all those families, parents' work schedules. It impacts students, of course," said Dry Creek Principal Julie Bryant, who has filled in as a substitute physical education teacher. READ THE FULL STORY: https://www.king5.com/article/news/education/teacher-shortage-port-angeles/281-2e3832d9-f906-4d7d-8923-89b7fd48da2e