Ready to make an impact in your community while getting paid? Become a substitute teacher with Kokua in Brooklyn and surrounding NYC and create powerful moments that shift students’ perception of what’s possible.

We're currently accepting applications for the 2025-26 school year, and you can begin interviewing right away!

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
Add representation to the classroom to help kids learn from your unique experiences
Autonomy - Choose the teaching assignments & locations you’re most excited about

You’ll need:

Completed Bachelor’s Degree (per NYC requirement)
1+ year(s) experience working with K-12 students

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!

Confidence to manage a classroom of students
Ability to pass a background check
Availability within a 7:30am-4:30pm window, as start and end times vary by school
Preference given to candidates who can work at least 3 days/week
Preference is given to candidates willing to commute to 2+ boroughs

With Kokua, you’ll get:

Earn up to $210 daily with weekly paychecks

$182/day for daily positions and $210/day for long-term positions

A quick hiring process - receive an offer within 48 hours of applying
Gain experience at a wide variety of private and charter schools across NYC
Access full-time teaching opportunities at top rated K-12 schools
Accrue paid sick days once you start teaching
Ongoing professional development sessions to strengthen your teaching skills
Transportation assistance - opportunity to enroll & use pre-tax dollars for public transportation and parking
A W-2 meaning no fussing with taxes at year end
A support team of former teachers available from 6am-7:30pm who care about your success

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.

Substitute Teacher - up to $210 daily

Key skills

About this role