Substitute Teacher Story: Irvin Sutton

Kelly Education is proud to highlight the work of our talented educators. 

Irvin Sutton is the winner of our 2025 Educator of the Year award in the K-12 Substitute Teacher category. Mr. Sutton is an Army veteran and retired from the U.S. Postal Service after 26 years. He became a substitute teacher in 2021 at Western School of Technology and Environmental Science in the Baltimore County Public Schools. 

In this Q&A, Mr. Sutton shares his story about being a substitute teacher.

Tell us about your journey to become a substitute teacher.

After I retired, I felt the urge to make a greater impact. I was inspired by my wife, Barbara, to become a substitute teacher. She’s been a teacher for more than 40 years. I’ve watched her create lesson plans, grade papers, and work on IEPs. Every day, we‘d talk about school things, and I would say to her, “I’m going to try to be a sub.” Of course, she didn’t think I was going to do it! But I finally fulfilled that dream four years ago. 

The experience has been incredibly rewarding. I teach high school students from grades 9 through 12, covering subjects like precalculus, trigonometry, and culinary arts. I even work in special education resource classes. I enjoy the mix of students I get to teach at the school. Every day is something different! 

How do you connect with students to inspire them?

First, I show them that I care. I try to help the students to identify their talents and passions. Then, we look at how to connect their studies to those passions which allows them to begin to lay the foundation for success.  

One way I do this is to ask a student to lead the class. This helps them to grow confidence—in both learning the lesson and in building leadership. 

Building those connections is working. This year, the class president asked me to speak at graduation. Me, a substitute teacher! I was so honored to be asked. I wake up early every morning, excited to go to school to see these students. It’s not always easy getting up at my age, but I know these students are counting on me. 

Talk about being a role model to students at the school.

When I first arrived, I was the only African American male in the school apart from the cafeteria manager. I believe it’s important for students to see role models who look like them or share their experiences. These students are all part of my community, and I want them all to see the potential in themselves—and be successful in whatever they have a passion to do. That passion is different for everyone. 

Any advice for those considering work as a substitute teacher?

My advice to new substitute teachers would be that they shouldn’t see their role as just a temporary substitute but as a person that can truly offer these young people something that can assist them in enhancing or altering the potential of their lives. As a teacher, you bring them a wealth of knowledge. 

Approach each day with dedication and view challenges as an opportunity to connect with students. It’s about making them successful. Be patient, be caring, and always strive to make a positive impact. 

What colleagues say about Irvin Sutton.

“Mr. Sutton is more than a teacher, he is a pillar of our school community, a mentor, and a daily source of positivity and support for both students and staff alike. His presence goes far beyond the classroom. He attends faculty meetings, student proms, school events and athletic games, cheering on students with genuine pride.  

The students adore Mr. Sutton. In fact, our senior class requested him to be a speaker at graduation, a true testament to the connection and trust he has built. He is also known for his infectious energy.”

– Jewel M. Ralph, Principal 

“When I see him in the hallway, he is building relationships with students by referring to students by name, engaging them in conversations, correcting behaviors, and providing counsel to students in positive and uplifting ways”

– Cheryl Scott, Teacher 

Congratulations, Mr. Sutton!

“Irvin Sutton is a true representative of the high-quality educators Kelly Education provides to its partner schools each day,” says Nicola Soares, President of Kelly Education. 

“He operates with high integrity and makes a clear difference in ensuring student success. We are proud to recognize his commitment with this honor.” 

As one of four Educator of the Year winners, Mr. Sutton will receive a $5,000 bonus from Kelly Education, as well as $1,500 donated on his behalf to Western School of Technology and Environmental Science in Baltimore County Public Schools. 

Getting started with Kelly Education.

Substitute teaching is a flexible and rewarding job. Are you ready to make a difference? Complete our brief interest form, and one of our recruiters will share more about applying to be a substitute teacher. You can also learn more by reading our complete guide to becoming a substitute teacher.

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