Kokua Education·Calumet Park, Illinois
Act as a substitute teacher to provide instructional continuity and support in K-12 classrooms. Empower students to reach their potential while maintaining a positive learning environment.
Become a substitute teacher with Kokua in Roseland and surrounding Chicago 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 Current residence in or willingness to commute to Chicago 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 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.
Requires an Associate's Degree or 60+ credit hours and at least 6 months of experience working with students. Must possess or be willing to obtain a Substitute Teaching or Paraprofessional license and pass a background check.
Market context
Illinois substitute teacher roles are typically in steady demand because schools need flexible coverage for daily absences and short-term staffing gaps. These openings can be competitive when districts require an Associate’s degree or 60+ credit hours, student experience, and a valid Illinois Substitute Teaching or Paraprofessional license; reimbursement for licensure can help offset that barrier. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your transcript, experience, and license status before applying.