BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — Warren County Public Schools has named a new principal for Oakland Elementary. 

Their hiring comes as the district is dealing with multiple vacancies.

Shaun Stice has been an elementary school principal in Edmonson County since 2017, and is now taking the helm of Oakland Elementary. “I took an opportunity and I love it,” Stice said.

Ten people applied for the job, which, according to superintendent Rob Clayton, is a lot for a principal position. “We’ll have anywhere from a half dozen to, maybe, a dozen,” Clayton explained.

Despite leadership positions having a variety of applicants, other positions, such as bus drivers and various teaching positions, have close to zero.

Clayton said, “The workforce shortage is such a challenge that we’re being forced to look for alternative means but again, in this particular case, we’re fortunate to be able to select an individual who not only has qualifications, but has demonstrated success in the principal role.”

Warren County Public Schools is working to fill vacancies by hiring people who are currently working on getting their credentials.

“Certainly that’s not a best practice, it’s something we want to not have to entertain,” Clayton said.

According to Stice, he is willing to combat this situation head on, and hopes that the vacancies improve through legislature. “The legislation they’re working on increasing teacher pays and lots of things that will lure more people into the field,” he shared.

He hopes it can also provide a positive culture for Warren County Public Schools staff and students.

Stice will assume his position on July 1. Applications for positions are available online.