Kokua Education·New York
Lead special education classrooms to create a safe and supportive learning environment for students. Responsibilities include supervising lunch/recess, monitoring halls, tutoring, and proctoring tests.
Become a substitute teacher with Kokua in New York City and create powerful moments that shift students’ perception of what’s possible.
We are currently hiring Special Education substitute teachers to support our NYC school partners.
Applicants must have a Students with Disabilities (SWD) Certification to be considered.
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 to solve the teacher shortage crisis in America Flexible schedule - up to 5 days/week, allowing you to pursue other passions Work Hours Some schools may have earlier or later needs, so flexibility is a plus, but you’ll always know the schedule before accepting an assignment Start and end times vary by school, but most assignments begin between 7:00–8:00 AM and end between 3:45–4:45 PM Add representation to the classroom to help kids learn from your unique experience Autonomy - choose the teaching assignments & locations you’re most excited about With Kokua, you’ll get: Weekly paychecks - earn up to $315 daily $273 per day for daily assignments and $315 per day for long-term assignments A quick hiring process - receive an offer within 1 week of applying or less The chance to teach close to home - choose from schools across the NYC area Your foot in the door for full-time positions at high-performing K-12 schools A W-2, meaning no fussing with taxes at year-end A supportive community who cares about your success - access Kokua's support team from 6 AM - 8 PM every day The opportunity to lead classrooms and help create a safe, supportive learning environment Step in where needed throughout the school day to support your campus - this could include lunch/recess supervision, hall and bathroom monitoring, tutoring, and proctoring during testing season You’ll need: Bachelor's Degree Experience working with students in a special education setting Students with Disabilities (SWD) Certification in the state of New York Confidence to manage a classroom of students Ability to pass a background check Strong belief that every child has a unique & powerful gift to share with the world 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 Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Queens, 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.
Applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree and a valid Students with Disabilities (SWD) Certification in New York state. Experience working with students in special education settings and the ability to pass a background check are required.
Market context
Substitute teacher roles in New York are often in steady demand because schools need flexible coverage for daily absences and short-term staffing gaps. Competition can be strong when districts prefer candidates with child care experience or early education training, and the listed health and insurance benefits may help this role stand out. Before applying, confirm your eligibility, background check readiness, and schedule availability; the requirements and benefits here are AI-summarized from the original job description, saving you research time.