Part-time Substitute Teacher

Ready to make an impact in your community while getting paid? Become a substitute teacher with Kokua in Chicago, IL and create powerful moments that shift students’ perception of what’s possible.

We are now accepting applications for the 2026-27 school year, and you can start the interview process immediately!

In case you’re wondering, it’s pronounced Koh-KOO-ah. In Hawaiian, Kokua means to come together to fulfill a need and we’re excited to have you join us in connecting students with classroom role models who can empower them to be their best.

• Positively contribute to your community - spark a love for learning with your students
• Help solve the teacher shortage crisis in America
• Flexible schedule – up to 5 days/week, allowing you to pursue other passions and fit substitute teaching into your life
• Great working hours – typically 7:30 am-3:30 pm
• Add representation to the classroom to help kids learn from your unique experiences
• Autonomy – Choose the teaching assignments & locations you’re most excited about

• Pay up to $27 hourly with weekly paychecks; range depends on credentials & experience
• A quick hiring process – receive an offer within 1 week of applying or less
• Reimbursement for substitute teaching license
• Accrue paid sick days after 6 months
• Get your foot in the door for full‑time teaching positions at top rated schools
• Extra $ when you take selected shifts
• A $50 referral bonus when you refer your friends
• A W‑2 meaning no fussing with taxes at year end
• A team of supportive & caring individuals to help your journey into teaching

• 6 months experience working with students (tutoring, camps, volunteer and other experience counts!)
• Associate's Degree (or 60+ credit hours) or higher
• Current residence in or willingness to commute to Chicago
• IL Substitute Teaching License or Paraprofessional license
• Confidence to manage a classroom of students
• Ability to pass state & federal background check
• Have reliable means of transportation
• Please note:
  
  there is an out-of-pocket fee to obtain the background check, but Kokua will reimburse for this after teaching 10 days in the classroom
• We cannot hire candidates who are currently on the CPS do not hire list.

Don't have your license yet? No worries! We'll walk you through the quick online application process, and reimburse you for out of pocket costs once you start teaching.

About Kokua Education

Founded by a former teacher, Kokua has been connecting talented individuals to K‑12 schools for over 13 years. We currently operate in schools across the country, and serve schools across Chicago, building a growing and diverse network of dedicated substitute teachers who want to make a difference in students’ lives. We believe that one role model can change a student’s life forever.

As our Hawaiian name says, Kokua is about coming together as a community and paving a pathway for generations to come.