Substitute Teacher - Chicago, IL

Careers at Kokua; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 22,000 - 37,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

W-2 payroll

License reimbursement

Flexible schedule

Job summary

Kokua Education is seeking substitute teachers in the Chicago, IL area. Earn up to $27 per hour with weekly pay, working flexible assignments near home. We train and reimburse licensing costs, and you can start quickly with a fast interview process.

Leverage your experience with students, collaborate with school staff, and gain pathways to permanent roles as part of our growing K-12 network in Chicago. We value dedicated role models who inspire learning.

Qualifications

• At least 6 months working with students in any setting (classroom, tutoring, coaching).
• Associate degree or 60+ credit hours required.
• Hold an IL Substitute Teaching License or Paraprofessional license (licensing costs reimbursed if not yet licensed).

Responsibilities

• Assist in classrooms and provide tutoring as needed.
• Supervise lunch/recess and hallway monitoring.
• Proctor tests and support teachers during instructional activities.
• Maintain student safety and behaviour and support personalized learning.

Skills

Classroom management

Student engagement

Communication

Education

Associate degree or 60+ credit hours

Job description

Set your own schedule, earn up to $27 hourly and make a real difference in your community. Become a substitute teacher in Chicago, IL 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!

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:

• Up to $27 hourly with weekly paychecks - range depends on credentials & experience
• Paid via W-2, meaning no year-end tax headaches

What makes Kokua different:

• You set the schedule - work up to 5 days/week in teaching assignments you’re most excited about
• 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 school
• Teach close to home - choose from K-12 schools across the Chicago area
• Real support, 6am-8pm daily - we care about your success
• Referral reward - $50 bonus when you refer your friends
• Accrue paid sick days after 6 months - take time to recover when you need
• Reimbursement for substitute teaching license - we’ll help you get started
• Add representation - help kids learn from your unique experiences

You’re a great fit if you:

• Have at least 6 months working with students in any setting (classroom, tutoring, coaching, etc.)

• Have Associate’s Degree (or 60+ credit hours)

• Hold an 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.

• 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

• Pass state & federal background checks (costs reimbursed after 10 assignments)

• Are a current resident or willing to commute to Chicago

• 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!

As a note, we cannot hire candidates who are currently on the CPS do not hire list.

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.