In July, the Florence Unified School District welcomed students back for the new school year. And although we are off to a great start, we face a growing need for dedicated substitute or “guest” teachers. Our district thrives on providing quality education to our students, and ensuring we have enthusiastic and committed individuals stepping in when needed is crucial to maintaining the continuity of our educational programs.
Why consider becoming a substitute teacher?
Substitute, or guest teaching, is more than just filling in; it is about making a meaningful impact on the educational journey of our students. For many, the role offers a unique opportunity to engage with young minds, fostering their growth and development during critical moments of their academic journey. It is a chance to give back to the community, share life experiences and inspire the next generation.
Flexible schedule
One of the most appealing aspects of substitute teaching is the flexibility it offers. Whether you are looking to work a few days a week or more, guest teaching allows you to tailor your schedule to fit your lifestyle. Just ask Ginia Cathemer, who is currently a guest teacher in first grade at Florence K8. She shared that being a guest teacher allows her to work the same schedule as her son who also attends the school.
A perfect opportunity for retired individuals
This flexibility is particularly advantageous for retired individuals who may want to stay active in the community without committing themselves to a full-time position. For those who have retired but still have a passion for education and a desire to contribute to the community, substitute teaching is an ideal option. It provides a way to stay engaged, share a wealth of experience and make a difference in the lives of students without the long-term commitment to a full-time role. The positive impact that seasoned professionals can have on students is immeasurable, and their presence in our schools enriches the learning environment.
Competitive wages
In addition to flexibility, FUSD offers competitive wages that make substitute teaching a financially rewarding opportunity. We understand the value that substitute teachers bring to our classrooms, and we believe in compensating them accordingly. Currently, a certified guest teacher with a bachelor’s degree can earn $140 a day while an “emergency” guest teacher can earn $120 a day.
Seamless support through the hiring process
The Florence Unified School District is committed to providing seamless and supportive experiences for our guest teachers, and a key part of this commitment is our partnership with Educational Services Inc. Through this collaboration, we aim to grow our guest teacher pool and ensure that every classroom is filled with capable, passionate educators.
Substituting with ESI: two teams, one goal
When you join FUSD as a guest teacher through ESI, you are not just joining one team, you're gaining the support of two. ESI is hired to provide substitutes for school districts like FUSD, meaning you will be a W-2 employee of ESI while working each day at your chosen FUSD school. This arrangement allows you to benefit from the resources and backing of both ESI and FUSD.
One of the greatest advantages our guest teachers often mention is the dual support system they receive. ESI’s Employee Services team is always available to assist with any questions or concerns, providing peace of mind and ensuring that you feel valued.
Rita Ann Ezzai Reznick is the director of public relations for the Florence Unified School District.
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