Substitute Teacher Story: Katie Reagan

To honor the important work of our employees, we recognize outstanding substitute teachers, paraeducators, and support staff through our annual Substitute Educator of the Year program. Katie Reagan, a substitute early childhood educator for Burnsville-Eagan-Savage School District 191 in Burnsville, Minnesota, is the winner of our 2022 Early Childhood Substitute Educator of the Year award.

In this Q&A, Katie shares why she became an early childhood educator and her advice for students.

Why did you want to become an early childhood educator with Teachers On Call, a Kelly Education company? 

I enjoy working with children and enjoy the flexibility of helping in different classrooms at Diamondhead Education Center. I like helping children from multiple classrooms each day.  Plus, I’ve been able to build strong and trusting relationships with the school staff.  

What advice do you have for students? 

Remember to be kind and always do your best.

Why did you choose to work for Teachers On Call?

I enjoy the flexible schedule you offer and the ease of being able to connect with open positions.

What advice do you have for someone considering becoming an early childhood educator?

Each day is different, and you get to use your skills to help children grow in their education.

What is your philosophy or mantra?

No matter who you are, you matter.  

What colleagues say about Katie Reagan.

“Katie works in both our center-based and integrated classrooms. This demands a great deal of flexibility, attention to detail, and compassion. Her problem-solving skills, interpersonal communication, and energy make her a valuable and well-liked member of our team. During the most challenging days when multiple staff were out with COVID, Katie was there to help ensure that we were able to provide services to our students consistently and with integrity. I honestly don’t know what we would have done without her.”  

– Dr. Carolyn J. Cherry, Early Learning Supervisor

“Katie often steps up and volunteers to lend a hand with the most involved students and challenging classrooms. She treats all students with care and attentiveness, and is helpful to the staff as well. She shows this by stepping up to assist with walking children to and from the bus, helping with other bus duties, and greeting parents and students when families are coming and going from school. During her time before and after school, Katie provides support preparing learning materials, allowing the day to run more smoothly for all.”

– Kim Wakal, Early Childhood Special Education Coordinator  

Congratulations, Ms. Reagan!

“Katie Reagan is a true representative of the high-quality educators Kelly Education provides to its partner schools each day,” said Nicola Soares, president of Kelly Education. “She is dedicated to treating the students and staff she serves with the utmost dignity and care. We are proud to recognize her commitment with this honor.” 

As one of four national winners, Katie Reagan received an award certificate, a $5,000 bonus from Kelly Education and Teachers On Call, as well as a $1,500 donation on her behalf to Diamondhead Education Center. 

Getting started with Kelly Education.

Substitute teaching is a flexible and rewarding job. Are you ready to make a difference? We’re excited to get to know you and help you get started! Complete our brief interest form, and one of our expert recruiters will contact you to share more about applying to be a substitute teacher. You can also learn more by reading our complete guide to becoming a substitute teacher.

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