KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP) — Kansas City-area schools are trying to remedy a critical teacher shortage looming as the new school year begins, including by placing unqualified educators into some classrooms.

Some school districts have been rehiring retired teachers, or training counselors and coaches to teach, The Kansas City Star reported.

The profession's infamous low pay combined with fewer people pursuing a teaching career have school districts scrambling to find qualified candidates, according to Paul Katnik, an assistant commissioner at the Missouri Department of Education.

About 11% of Misso...