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Where we live: Ticket taking is no small task

As the Lehighton Area School District embarks on creating job descriptions and conducting interviews for athletic game staff, possibly including ticket takers, it’s essential to acknowledge the underlying issue; finding event staff has become increasingly difficult. The trend is not unique to the district or even the region.

In recent years, securing event staff has become a daunting task.

“Normally, we send out an email to our district staff letting them know we’re looking for people to work events, and if they get back to us and it fits their schedule, they get hired,” Lehighton athletic director Kyle Spotts said.

Many schools and organizations struggle to fill positions, from ticket takers to scoreboard operators and beyond. This shortage can be attributed to various factors, the most likely of which is that it’s not a financially attractive gig.

The game worker pay scale varies by duty and amount of hours anticipated, but generally ranges from $30-$50 per event.

By adding an extra layer of bureaucracy - requiring job descriptions and formal interviews - the risk is deterring potential candidates. While the intention may be to ensure quality and accountability, unintended consequences should be considered.

District employees often fill event staff positions. Even with a full staff, finding a backup - when life inevitably happens - is difficult.

Spotts told the school board Monday night of situations when his 12-year-old son had to rip tickets in a pinch when someone, who was originally scheduled for the job, called off at the last minute.

When someone who works the scoreboard calls off, not just anyone can be pulled off the street.

“Sometimes, you have to go to another district to get someone,” Spotts said.

By adding a formal interview process, it may inadvertently create a barrier for those who are willing to help, but may not have the time or desire to go through that.

Slowing down the hiring process, may leave events understaffed and put additional pressure on existing staff.

During discussion Monday night, some Lehighton directors acknowledged that interviewing candidates to collect tickets at sporting events may not ultimately be necessary.

Hopefully alternative solutions will be explored that balance the need for quality and accountability with the reality of the situation. Some of that involves allowing administrators, such as Spotts, to do their job. That includes a level of trust that, while a formal interview process may not happen, he won’t bring in staff that put the district, students or community at risk.

Adopting a flexible approach can ensure that events are well-staffed and successful, while also acknowledging the evolving needs and expectations of the community.