Kokua Education·Nashville, Tennessee
Serve as a long-term substitute teacher in special education classrooms to support student learning and growth. Responsibilities include managing classrooms and assisting with supervision, tutoring, and testing proctoring.
Set your own schedule, earn up to $206/day, and make a real difference in your community.
Become a special education substitute teacher in Nashville and create powerful moments that shift students’ perception of what’s possible.
We are currently accepting applications for the 2026-27 school year, and you can start the interview process right away!
We are specifically hiring for certified, long-term special education teachers to support our partner schools.
In Hawaiian, Kokua (Koh-KOO-ah) means to come together to fulfill a need.
For us, that means placing positive role models in classrooms who spark a love for learning.
You’ll earn: $206/day with weekly paychecks Paid via W-2, meaning no year-end tax headaches What makes Kokua different: Consistent schedule - work 5 days/week in the same special education teaching assignment Get hired fast - receive an offer within 1 week of applying Path to full-time - get your foot in the door for permanent roles at high-performing K-12 schools Teach close to home - choose from K-12 schools across the Nashville area Referral reward - $50 bonus when you refer your friends Real support, 6am-8pm daily - we care about your success and provide free professional development Add representation - help kids learn from your unique experiences You’re a great fit if you: Have at least 1 year working with kids in any setting (classroom, tutoring, coaching, etc.) Have an Associate’s degree or 60+ credit hours Bachelor’s degree preferred, but candidates will be considered based on relevant experience Currently hold one of the following licenses: 460: SPED Modified K-12 (no longer an active credential, but is accepted) 145: SPED Interventionist 6-12 144: SPED Interventionist K-8 Feel confident managing a classroom of students Are willing to step in where needed - this could include lunch/recess supervision, hallway monitoring, tutoring, and proctoring during testing season Are willing to work at least 3 days/week Pass state & federal background checks (costs reimbursed after 10 assignments) Believe every child has a unique & powerful gift to share with the world Pro tip: To put your best foot forward, please include all relevant experience working with students on your resume to be considered for this role!
Kokua Education participates in E-Verify for employment eligibility verification in Tennessee.
Please review the linked materials to learn more about the E-Verify program.
1.
Right to Work Notice 2.
E-Verify Participation About Kokua Education Founded in 2011 by a former teacher, Kokua (koh-KOO-ah) connects talented, professional educators with K-12 schools across the country.
We’re building a growing and diverse network of dedicated substitute teachers who make a positive difference in students’ lives.
Our substitute teachers do more than cover lesson plans.
They’re role models who play a pivotal role in their communities, paving pathways for generations to come.
Candidates must hold a valid Special Education license (e.g., 460, 145, or 144) and have at least one year of experience working with children. An Associate's degree is required, though a Bachelor's degree is preferred.
Market context
In Tennessee, substitute teacher openings often reflect steady school-day coverage needs, especially when districts need reliable classroom support on short notice. Roles can be competitive because employers look for candidates who are adaptable, comfortable managing a classroom, and able to meet basic credential and safety requirements; this posting also notes a high school diploma, daycare or preschool lead-teacher experience, and First Aid/CPR certification. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your experience aligns with the physical demands and classroom expectations before applying.