Associated Press

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky education officials say a growing teacher shortage has become critical and they are launching a recruitment campaign.

Education Commissioner Wayne Lewis says recruitment efforts could include using programs like Teach for America, working with universities on alternative certification routes and hiring based on work experience.

Department of Education spokeswoman Jessica Fletcher says open teaching positions climbed from 6,200 in 2014-15 to 8,800 in 2016-17. The department says there were 5,000 openings earlier this year.

News outlets report several issues are mentioned as possible reasons for the shortage, including pensions, politics, pay and the pursuit of higher test scores.

Officials say the shortage is caused by teachers leaving the field and fewer college students pursuing an education degree.