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

We are currently accepting applications for the 2025-26 school year, and you can start the interview process 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 to solve the teacher shortage crisis in America
• Flexible schedule - up to 5 days/week, allowing you to pursue other passions
• Work Hours
  • Some schools may have earlier or later needs, so flexibility is a plus, but you’ll always know the schedule before accepting an assignment
  • Start and end times vary by school, but most assignments begin between 7:00–8:00 AM and end between 3:45–4:45 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: 

• Weekly paychecks - earn up to $144/day
  • $129 per day for daily assignments and $144 per day for long-term assignments
• A quick hiring process - receive an offer within 1 week of applying or less
• The chance to teach close to home - choose from K-12 schools across the Houston area
• Your foot in the door for full-time positions at high-performing K-12 schools
• A W-2, meaning no fussing with taxes at year-end
• A supportive community who cares about your success - access Kokua's support team from 6 AM - 8 PM every day
• The opportunity to lead classrooms and help create a safe, supportive learning environment
  • Step in where needed throughout the school day to support your campus - this could include lunch/recess supervision, hall and bathroom monitoring, tutoring, and proctoring during testing season

You’ll need:

• 1+ year(s) working with students in any setting (classroom, tutoring, coaching, camps, etc.)
• 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!
• Minimum of 48 college credit hours
• Confidence to manage a classroom of students
• Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently
• Strong belief that every child has a unique & powerful gift to share with the world
• Ability to pass state & federal background checks
• Out-of-pocket costs will be reimbursed after 10 teaching assignments

About Kokua Education

Founded by a former teacher, Kokua has been connecting talented individuals to K-12 schools for more than 13 years. We currently operate in schools across the country, and serve schools across the Houston 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.