LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — It’s less than a month away from most Central Florida school districts welcoming students and teachers back to school. But many are still trying to fill open positions. That includes Lake County Schools, which are aiming to hire staff at its largest hiring event of the year Wednesday.

The school district is looking to hire at least 82 teachers and 19 bus drivers for this upcoming school year. They also have openings for positions like school counselors, mechanics and teacher assistants.

Lake County Schools officials told Spectrum News 13 that due to the growth of the county, it is bringing more kids to the area, which means more positions are opening up and needing to get filled.

"There’s always going to be an influx of people leaving, but why we’re pushing it so hard this year is our growth. Lake County has grown exponentially in population, let alone in student numbers. With the growth continuing, each year we’re going to have more and more positions," said Jamie West, Non-Instructional Recruitment Partner for Lake County Schools.

Lake County Schools stated it will provide help with certifications and other needed requirements if need be. Officials hope to have everyone hired and in place for the first day of school on Aug. 10, 2023.

The hiring event is Wednesday, July 12, at Mount Dora High School from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.