She Strengthens

The Unpredictable Life of a Substitute Teacher

Monday mornings can be chaotic, especially when you’re trying to apply mascara while juggling a piece of toast. As a substitute teacher, my daily routine is far from ordinary. I often receive last-minute calls to fill in for teachers, which means my schedule is always in flux.

Embracing the Unknown

One morning, I received a call at 7:08 AM to teach at an elementary school 13 miles away. This is just one example of the unpredictable nature of my job. Some days I’m teaching multiplication to 5th graders, while others I’m watching Myth Busters episodes with high school students. My commute varies greatly, from a short bike ride to a 30-minute drive.

How I Got Here

After moving back home, I set two goals for myself: building an emergency fund and focusing on my writing. My mom encouraged me to explore teaching, but I was hesitant. I eventually decided to take on a substitute teaching position, which required a Bachelor’s Degree, passing the California Basic Educational Skills Test, and a $100 application fee.

Debunking the Stereotypes

The notion that substitute teachers are lazy and only babysit is far from the truth. While some days may be easier than others, my job often requires me to teach complex lessons, like photosynthesis, to young students. I take pride in sharing these special moments with my students.

The Financial Reality

As a substitute teacher in a well-funded public school district in California, my pay is higher than the national average. I earn $160 per day, regardless of grade level or school location. If I work a full day, I can bring home $3,300 before taxes. While it’s not a lucrative career, it’s enough to get by, especially with a roommate.

The Challenges

However, my first few months were tough. I only worked four times in a month, earning a mere $500. It wasn’t until I built a solid reputation at the schools I worked at that I was able to secure consistent work. Being paid monthly means I need to budget carefully, especially during the summer months when work is scarce.

A Different Kind of Fulfillment

While the pay may not be exceptional, I’ve found a sense of fulfillment in my job. It’s less labor-intensive than my previous job as a waitress, and I have the luxury of having nights and weekends off. I may not be planning to pursue teaching as a permanent career, but I’m happy to support full-time teachers and earn a living in the process.