Become a substitute educator in Polk County.

Substitute teachers require a high school diploma or equivalent and must be 20 years of age or older. Paraprofessional and clerical assignments require a high school diploma or equivalent.

No prior experience is required.  All you need is a clean background and a desire to help students learn and grow every day. Then you’re well on your way to becoming a great substitute teacher.  

Pay rates for Polk County Public Schools are as follows:

• Substitute teacher – $115/day
• Paraprofessional – $15/hour
• Clerical – $15/hour

Payday is weekly on Fridays. Direct deposit option is available.

As a Kelly Education employee, you’ll have access to ACA-compliant health care coverage; optional medical, dental and vision plans; retirements savings programs; free employee wellness programs; educational discounts and savings; employee discounts and rebates on top brands and services; and more! Learn more

First, we have plenty of daily substitute teaching opportunities to maximize your earning potential and provide you with steady work. Second – once you are hired – you are eligible to earn $100 for every person you refer to us and begins working. The more you refer, the more you earn!

Here is a general idea of what you can expect:

1. Submit application. Let us know you’re interested and a Kelly Education recruiter will follow up with you on next steps.
2. Fill out a prescreen form. This will be sent to you to confirm that a few minimum requirements are met.
3. Join a virtual group interview. Learn more about our available positions in your area and see if a job in education is a good fit.
4. Complete our online classroom management training. This free, required training will prepare you to be a confident in your new role.
5. Pass a background check. Fingerprinting and background checks are completed to ensure a safe environment for students.
6. Attend our paid orientation. Learn about the policies and procedures for working with Kelly Education and the education institution.
7. Start working! We will provide you with access to our scheduling system so you can start viewing and accepting assignments in schools of your choice.

We pride ourselves on flexible work opportunities, so we do not require a regular hourly or daily commitment. However, given the critical need for substitute teachers and other staff, we encourage our employees to work at least two days a week, when possible. (You must also work at least one shift every 150 days to remain eligible for assignments).

Yes. You can work in a substitute capacity while pursuing a full-time position with Polk County Public Schools. For more information about full-time opportunities, visit the Polk County Public Schools website.

Training is important to us and we want to make sure you feel confident and prepared. Prior to your first work assignment, you receive free online classroom management training to help you become a capable classroom leader. Free professional development courses are always available to you, covering a variety of topics that are relevant to the work you will be doing.  

All substitute educators — regardless of position — receive paid orientation that covers Kelly Education employment and district-specific policies and procedures.