Kokua Education·Northbrook, Illinois
Act as a substitute teacher in the Northbrook area to empower students and maintain classroom continuity. Provide role modeling and instructional support to help students reach their full potential.
Become a substitute teacher with Kokua in the Northbrook area and create powerful moments that shift students’ perception of what’s possible.
We are now accepting applications for the 2025-26 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.
Perks of substitute teaching: 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 With Kokua, you’ll get: 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 You’ll need: 6 months experience working with students (tutoring, camps, volunteer and other experience counts!) Associate's Degree (or 60+ credit hours) or higher Willingness to commute to Northbrook for teaching assignments IL Substitute Teaching License or Paraprofessional license 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.
Confidence to manage a classroom of students Ability to pass state & federal background check 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 Have reliable means of transportation As a note, we cannot hire candidates who are currently on the CPS do not hire list.
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.
Candidates must have an Associate's degree or 60+ credit hours and at least 6 months of experience working with students. A valid IL Substitute Teaching or Paraprofessional license is required or must be obtainable.
Market context
Substitute Teacher roles in Illinois are often in steady demand because schools need flexible coverage for daily absences and classroom continuity. These openings can be competitive when districts require an associate’s degree or 60+ credit hours, prior student-facing experience, and a valid or obtainable Illinois substitute or paraprofessional license. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your license status and gather proof of credits before applying.