Substitute Teacher Story: Diego Gomez

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Navy veteran makes a difference in the classroom as a substitute teacher.

Meet Diego Gomez—a former United States Navy sailor, father of three, and proud substitute teacher with Kelly Education.

Diego’s career path, like so many today, has zig-zagged a bit. It first took him from serving his country for six years to a stressful sales job to provide for his family. But then a medical event happened, and his corporation laid him off after just three weeks. That put everything into perspective. Money was not everything.

He decided to pursue a career in education—a path aligned with his desire to be a good father and create lasting change.

Why did you start working as a substitute teacher?

I was part of the Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) for both of my kids’ schools. It was clear the school needed more people driven to go into education. I saw the need for role models, especially male role models.

I was inspired by my daughter’s first-grade teacher. Through COVID, she stood out and made a difference—not just for the kids, but also for the parents. She did everything she could to support her students during a difficult time. She even hosted graduation and Thanksgiving at her own home. She really embodied what being an educator is.

While I was laid off, I decided to pursue a college degree. She was the main reason I switched from a sales administration major to an education major. As a substitute teacher, I’m getting on the job training.

What is it like to work as a substitute teacher?

I get to make a difference, even if it’s just for a period or a day. I look forward to going to school. I have developed amazing mentorships with students. I get to connect with them in such different aspects. I feel like I am molding and preparing the future of our nation.

The amazing thing about being a substitute teacher is that I’m not just assigned to one subject. I teach different subjects and develop perspectives from the other teachers I work with. While on the job, I’m learning to identify students’ strengths and weaknesses. I actually get to see and help them grow.

It’s also amazing to have a role that works for my routine. It’s flexible. I like to pick the days and times when I want to work. If I need to do something for my family, I block out the day.

Do you have a favorite grade level?

I love middle schoolers. It’s a critical age for self-discovery and character building. They’re at the stage when they’re developing their own voice. I enjoy guiding them to think critically, make mistakes, and learn from those experiences. This way, they understand how the decisions they make will affect them in the future.

How does being a military veteran impact your role as a substitute teacher?

The military develops strong leadership skills that transfer well to the classroom. Leadership covers everything. If you’re a good leader, you’re a good listener. You’re able to understand situations and make decisions properly.

I enjoy sharing my military experiences with the students, including meeting amazing people all over the world. I help them see different perspectives.

I’m also going to college through military funding. Students connect with me in that I’m also a student who goes to school full-time. I tell them all the time, “Go home and do your homework. I’ll go home and do my homework. And we’ll see each other in the morning.”

What do you tell people who might be interested in being a substitute teacher?

I encourage more men to pursue teaching—it’s incredibly rewarding. We need more good male role models today. It’s incredible to see how you can impact students. They absorb what you say and how you carry yourself, and that carries into how they portray themselves into the world.

The impact you can make goes beyond substitute teachers. Every adult in the school setting—whether a janitor, security guard, or teacher—has the power to inspire and positively influence students. There’s always that person who is the glue that makes everything come together. All it takes is one person to make a difference, and that could be you.

Any final thoughts to share?

Teaching has become more than just a job—it’s a passion and a purpose. To me, money isn’t everything. I want to love what I do, succeed, and perform at my best.

We are preparing the future. There will be no doctors or astronauts without educators. It’s a forgotten field that needs recognition, because what we do is so critical.

Ready to become a substitute teacher like Diego Gomez?

Whether you’re currently working towards your teaching certification or simply exploring meaningful career possibilities, now is the time to gain valuable classroom experience.

Want to learn more about our substitute teaching job opportunities near you. Fill out our interest form and a Kelly Education recruiter will reach out to discuss how you can start a career in education.