Ready to make an impact in your community while getting paid? Become a substitute teacher with Kokua in D.C. 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


• Great working hours - typically 7:30 am-3:30 pm


• Add representation to the classroom to help kids learn from your unique experiences 


• Autonomy - Choose the teaching assignments & locations you’re most excited about

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


• Great working hours - typically 7:30 am-3:30 pm


• Add representation to the classroom to help kids learn from your unique experiences 


• Autonomy - Choose the teaching assignments & locations you’re most excited about

With Kokua, you’ll get: 

• Pay: earn up to $190/day with weekly paychecks




• $170/day for daily assignments and $190/day for long-term assignments




• A quick hiring process - receive an offer within 1 week of applying or less


• Teach close to home - choose from K-12 schools across the D.C. area


• Get your foot in the door for full-time positions at top rated schools 


• A $50 referral bonus when you refer your friends 


• Free ongoing professional development


• A W-2 meaning no fussing with taxes at year end


• Join a supportive community who cares about your success - access Kokua's support team from 6 am - 8 pm every day

You’ll need:

• Associate’s Degree or 60+ credit hours


• 1+ year(s) working with students


• Confidence to manage a classroom of students


• Ability to pass state & federal background check


• Completion of required employment history review and SSOA training, in compliance with D.C. law


• 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 the D.C. area, 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.