Our substitute teachers, paraeducators, tutors, and support staff come from diverse walks of life. Some are former educators, others are professionals, retirees, or college students. Each one took a different path to begin working in our schools. Here are just a few of their inspiring stories.
Michael found what he calls “the greatest retirement gig in the world.” After a successful corporate career in higher education marketing, he now spends his days greeting students with a smile while working as a substitute teacher at Stiles Point Elementary School in Charleston. Read more
Gabrielle Graham is a long-term substitute teacher at Broward County Public Schools where administrators say her reliability and professionalism make her an invaluable part of their team. She studied musical theatre through a conservatory and uses her skills as a thespian while teaching World History - Ancient Civilizations to middle schoolers. Read more
Irvin Sutton | Retired Postal Service Employee
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 for Baltimore County Public Schools. Read more
Gulzar Pabani | Former Teacher
Gulzar Pabani is the winner of our 2025 Educator of the Year award in the pre-K Substitute Teacher category. Mrs. Pabani holds a bachelor’s degree in commerce and a master’s degree in English literature.She’s now a long-term substitute teacher for pre-K students with special needs for Orange County Public Schools Read more
Jordyn Solomon | College Graduate
Jordyn Solomon is the winner of our 2025 Educator of the Year award in the Paraeducator category. Ms. Solomon is a long-term paraeducator at Walter M. Schirra Elementary in Old Bridge, New Jersey. Read more
ShiAnn Santiago is the winner of our 2025 Educator of the Year award in the Tutor category. After struggling with a large load of honors classes in high school, Ms. Santiago got the help she needed. Now, she helps other students as a tutor at Quarter Mile Lane School in Bridgeton, New Jersey, where she tutors math for third through eighth graders. Read more
Diego Gomez is a former United States Navy sailor, father of three, and proud substitute teacher. Mr. Gomez was part of the Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) for his kids’ schools. He says the school needed more people driven to go into education. I saw the need for role models, especially male role models. Read more
Jenna Kroeger started to work as a substitute teacher after earning her bachelor’s degree in psychology. She's saving money for graduate school by working three jobs. As a substitute teacher, she especially enjoys the flexible schedule and helping students. Read more
Mary Jo Malino started as an elementary teacher, then found her true calling at the high school level—especially in the Junior ROTC program, where she supports student leadership, critical thinking, and personal growth. Read more
Substitute teaching is both a flexible and rewarding career. If you’re ready to learn more, we’re excited to get to know you and help you get started. Complete our brief interest form, and one of our expert recruiters will contact you to share more about the steps to become a substitute teacher.