This study delves into the growing trend of hiring temporary teachers in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), driven by the need for education systems to find more cost-effective and flexible solutions in the face of budget constraints and increasing educational demand. However, it warns that this practice may negatively affect the quality and equity of education, as temporary teachers often have lower qualifications, face precarious working conditions, and experience high turnover rates. The analysis focuses on eight countries in the region: Ecuador, Peru, Colombia, Guyana, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, and Argentina. It examines the characteristics, working conditions, distribution, and trends of these professionals, aiming to understand their impact on regional education. The study reveals a significant increase in temporary hiring, with a higher prevalence in rural areas and indigenous schools. Key actions are proposed to mitigate the risks to educational quality and equity, including ensuring transparency in recruitment processes, expanding access to professional development, improving working conditions, and monitoring teacher performance.
