Washoe County schools faces teacher shortage, highlights dedicated educator

The Washoe County School District is grappling with a shortage of educators, particularly in special education, career and technical education programs, and substitute teaching roles. Amidst these challenges, the district is spotlighting dedicated teachers like Lalita Cole, a comprehensive life skills teacher at Melton Elementary School.

Born in Bombay, India, Cole moved around the world before settling in Reno in 1993. A graduate of Reno High School, she began her teaching career in 2005 and launched her program at Melton Elementary eight years ago. The program, which started as a strategies class, has evolved into a blend of strategies and comprehensive life skills, supported by paraprofessionals, a speech pathologist, an occupational therapist, and a psychologist.

"We teach multiple skills. We focus on the academics. We focus on early learning skills, self-help skills, social skills," Cole said.

Cole manages six students at a time, all of whom are on the autism spectrum. She emphasized the importance of patience and time management in her role.

"I think the time management is what I learned throughout the years just because I want to focus on my students, but I also have a personal life," Cole said.

Despite the challenges, Cole finds fulfillment in her work, driven by the progress she sees in her students over the years. She noted that while some days are difficult, the rewarding moments make it worthwhile.

"Sometimes our students have a hard time regulating their emotions. So, we really work on and focus on how to regulate their emotions... and say it's ok to have those bad days, but we can't hit, we can't bite. So, we teach them skills that are necessary," she said.

Jeff Batavia, principal at Melton Elementary School, praised Cole's qualities, which are essential for more challenging teaching positions.

"You got to have that kind of just, you know, just willing to not take things personally. If students are upset, they can't communicate like you, or I do. So, they may communicate in a different way. It might be a physical way. It's not a personal thing. you know, you just got to know like, hey, how can I help? And come back every day with a big smile on your face," Batavia said.

The district is actively seeking more teachers who share Cole's passion and dedication. Doug Owen, Chief HR Officer at the school district, emphasized the need for passionate educators.

"I think it's really if you have a passion for teaching and because you can clearly tell me school has a passion for her students. And so, you know, if you want to, you know, go on that journey and embark on that and you have that passion," Owen said.

For those interested in becoming a paraprofessional or a comprehensive life skills teacher, the Washoe County School District encourages reaching out for more information.