In a public elementary school located in Hyogo Prefecture, the winter season has brought a significant challenge as a homeroom teacher has taken leave due to a mental health condition. This situation has led school administrators to search for part-time lecturers, but they are struggling to find suitable candidates. Currently, the assistant principal and other staff members are temporarily covering the teaching duties. The national teaching workforce is facing an unprecedented strain, with around 13,000 public educators expected to be on sick leave due to mental health issues in the 2024 academic year. In Hyogo Prefecture alone, 11% of the public schools are experiencing teacher shortages, as reported in May of last year.