Paterson school officials are hoping to offer a new beginning for teachers who were laid off in East Orange.

The Paterson Education Association said it condemns the layoffs and stands in solidarity with the teachers. The circumstances aren't ideal. But this is an opportunity for a district that has been struggling to fill positions.

Paterson school officials said they have been dealing with a teacher shortage for the last two years. More than 70 East Orange teachers and staff found out last week that they will be let go in December due to a massive budget shortfall.

These teachers want to find work. East Orange has said it is working with Paterson, Orange, Maplewood, Elizabeth, Irvington, South Orange and Union Township on job placement.

In Paterson, jobs were being offered Wednesday during a job fair. New hires could begin even before winter break.

"The educators from East Orange that unfortunately are going through this difficult time, we reached out to them to offer them a supportive and a great landing spot,” says Susete Chavez, human resources director for Paterson Public Schools. “Paterson could be their new home…We don't care if you're a new teacher, maybe you're changing careers, or you're a veteran teacher."

The state is now involved in East Orange, discussing the next steps. The district will also be hosting more job fairs.