Substitute Teacher Story: Gabrielle Graham

Kelly Education is proud to highlight the work of our talented educators. Gabrielle Graham is a long-term substitute teacher at Broward County Public Schools. She studied musical theatre through a conservatory and uses her skills as a thespian while teaching World History - Ancient Civilizations to middle schoolers. Gabrielle is also in college earning a bachelor's degree in Business Entrepreneurship and Marketing.

In this Q&A, Gabrielle shares her story about being a substitute teacher.

Tell us about your journey to become a substitute teacher.

I was in school and working for a small private company when the economy dipped and layoffs happened. I'd heard about Kelly Education. I thought to myself, you know, substitute teaching could be something I can just kind of do very quickly just to make some income.

At first, I wanted to work with the younger students, but a job opened at a nearby middle school, so I took it. Note that initially I quite literally said to myself, "I don't want to do middle school." Then, I got into the class and started forming bonds with the students. 

It's been great because I think that middle schoolers are actually at a quite pivotal moment in their lives. They are learning and discovering who they are without being told who they are. I push them to be free thinkers. I push them to be able to express themselves. My job is to let them be confident or help them or shape them into becoming confident young adults.

How does your musical theater background show up in the classroom?

I actually incorporate musical theater into everything that I do because it's very presentational. It allows me to really connect with students on a deep emotional level without maybe knowing them personally. I'm able to command attention in a room. I'm able to project, I'm able to articulate. 

Actors also do research to portray their characters, and I'm one of those people who love to do research. I go really deep into it. That's been very useful for me as a substitute teacher.

What motivates you to come to work every day?

The reaction that I get from the students makes me feel appreciated, and it makes me feel like I am making a difference in the ecosystem of the school. That's more important than money. It's more important than accolades. It's more important than anything. 

These children are quite literally our future. If I can do my part by being here and teaching them how to think critically, then I feel that I'm doing my part in the world. 

I believe that everything is a seed and in life you have to water things to see them grow and flourish.

Any final thoughts about substitute teaching and Kelly Education?

The role of an educator is definitely one of the most important roles in society.  

Kelly definitely plays an integral part in making sure that substitute teachers are trained and available for our school system. 

If you see a future in education and maybe you haven't gotten your foot in the door, I think Kelly does a great job of getting you in the door. Then, you can meet other teachers and administrators. They all are there to help and support you.

What colleagues say about Gabrielle.

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.