Rethinking Teacher Shortages: A Hybrid Teaching Solution

When faced with math teacher shortages, Beaumont Independent School District didn’t just look for a quick fix. Instead, they developed an innovative hybrid teaching program that combines in-person support with virtual expert instruction. The result? Students get the best of both worlds: the structure and support of traditional classroom learning with the expertise of a qualified math teacher.

The Program 

At the heart of this approach is a simple but effective split: students attend their regular math class with an in-class facilitator who manages the classroom and provides day-to-day support. Meanwhile, Cameron Bordages, a certified Algebra 2 teacher, delivers expert instruction virtually across multiple classrooms.

“I’m spearheading a program at my school where we have classes that don’t have a certified teacher – it’s a tested subject. So they have a facilitator in there, and I Zoom call into their classroom and teach both classes at once.”

Why It Works

• Students maintain the routine and support of in-person learning
• Classes have consistent classroom management from their facilitator
• Expert math instruction is delivered by a certified teacher
• The model is scalable and can be adapted for different subjects
• Schools can maximize their teaching resources effectively
• Splitting teaching and management duties reduces burnout and lets educators focus on their strengths

The Technology Behind It

Tools like Kami help make this hybrid approach seamless. “I use Kami sort of as my chalkboard. I’m able to make notes, show my working, highlight and colour code everything. It’s an easy way to project my screen into both classes, so everyone can clearly see what I’m writing. Then I can save my notes into Google, and answer questions, add notes and post it straight into Classroom.”

Looking Forward 

As teacher shortages continue to impact schools nationwide, districts are getting increasingly creative with their solutions. This hybrid teaching model shows how rethinking traditional classroom structures can work effectively. By splitting teaching and facilitation roles, and using technology thoughtfully, schools can maintain expert instruction in crucial subjects while keeping students in the classroom. As these shortages persist, particularly in specialized subjects like mathematics, models like this may become the new normal.

How Kami Helps 

Whether you’re teaching in a traditional classroom, running a hybrid program, or exploring innovative teaching models, Kami adapts to fit. Our classroom engagement tools support teachers in delivering clear, engaging instruction while giving students the interactive features they need to learn effectively – no matter what your classroom looks like.

This story is part of our ongoing series exploring educator’s stories around digital learning. Stay connected for more inspiring stories about reshaping education with technology.