Kokua Education - LinkedIn·Chicago, Illinois
Serve as a substitute teacher in Chicago schools to address teacher shortages and empower students. Manage classrooms and provide instructional support to ensure students reach their full potential.
Become a substitute teacher with Kokua in Chicago, IL and help your local schools in solving the teacher shortage.
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 Help to solve the teacher shortage crisis in America Add representation to the classroom Great working hours - typically 7:30 am-3:30 pm Flexible schedule - up to 5 days/week, allowing you to pursue other passions Autonomy: Choose the teaching assignments & locations you’re most excited about With Kokua, you’ll get: Pay up to $200 daily; range depends on credentials & experience A quick hiring process - receive an offer within 1 week of applying or less Reimbursement for substitute teaching license 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 Residence in or willingness to commute to Chicago 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.
Fully COVID-19 vaccinated or willing to complete weekly testing 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 amazing individuals to K-12th substitute positions for over 11 years.
We currently operate in five states, and serve 75+ schools across Chicago, building a growing community of dedicated substitute teachers who want to make a difference in students’ lives.
We believe that proximity is power and one role model can change a life forever.
As our Hawaiian name says, Kokua is about coming together as a community and paving a pathway for youth 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. Must be able to pass a background check and have reliable transportation to Chicago.
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.