The countdown to the classroom is entering its final days, with many changes this year and some challenges too.

There are new COVID-19 rules across the tri-state and a looming crisis stemming from a teacher shortage.

News 12's Elizabeth Hashagen was joined by Ashley Bencan and Anthony Nicodemo to discuss what to expect this year.

Thousands of students in Ohio's largest school district start their new school year remotely today, as educators remain on strike for better learning and teaching conditions.

Health officials in the tri-state are juggling the COVID-19 pandemic and monkeypox outbreak as families prepare for back to school. When it comes to COVID-19, after two years of pandemic restrictions, many rules are finally lifted.

Education Department data shows that three-quarters of public schools offer mental health support and summer learning.

"Thanks to the work of so many educators, administrators, parents, and students, and with the help of $122 billion in American Rescue Plan funding, schools are better prepared to open safely, combat learning loss, and address student mental health," said Education Secretary Miguel Cardona this week.

Are we better positioned this year?

How did schools try to combat learning loss over the summer? What will school sports look like in the fall?

An estimated 300,000 teachers and staff left the field between February 2020 and May 2022, according to numbers from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

An American Federation of Teachers survey found almost 80% of teachers are dissatisfied with working conditions, almost half (46%) saying they are very dissatisfied.

The National Education Association found 55% of educators are considering leaving the profession earlier than expected.