Ready to make an impact in your community while getting paid? Become a substitute teacher with Kokua in New York City 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.