MT. VERNON — Mt. Vernon City Schools are looking to take part in the new Golden Apple Program to address the state’s ongoing teacher shortage. The program encourages those with bachelor’s degrees or pursuing bachelor’s degrees to go into education to fill vacant teaching positions.

City Schools Superintendent Aletta Lawrence says if they can bring teachers in through the program, they are more likely to stay and teach in Mt. Vernon long-term.

The school board also voted Monday night to send out a few final projects for bids as the district looks to wrap up work from previous referendum money to improve school facilities.