Substitute Teacher Story: William Reich

Grad student, photographer, graphic designer finds purpose and flexibility as a substitute teacher.

Finding a job after college graduation can be an exciting (and nerve-wracking) time. William Reich did it, only to have his graphic design job eliminated two months later. Unemployment was not the vision he had.

So, after months of sending out resumes, he pivoted.

This motivated young man is now juggling grad school, a freelance photography and graphic design business, and substitute teaching. He says flexibility and agility is the name of the game for people entering today’s job market.

In this Q&A, William shares how becoming a substitute teacher is giving him skills that will apply to his future career.

I really didn’t expect to be unemployed. But a family friend saw I was struggling and told me about substitute teaching. Not only is it flexible work that allows me to work on my freelance design business, but it’s also building my management skills.

Depending on the classroom and grade level, managing a classroom can be very challenging. I’m learning leadership skills and putting organization and empathy to practice. I didn’t know that I would enjoy being a substitute teacher. I can feel myself growing as a person. It’s a fun challenge.

What else do you enjoy about substitute teaching?

I would say that flexibility is very good for me being a freelance photographer and graphic designer and doing my grad school homework. I can decide the night before if I'm able to pick up shift for the next day. I can also pick up something super far in advance when a teacher has a planned day off.

I do find it easy to pick up shifts and then if I want to take some time off, I just don't pick up shift for those days.

Once you learn your area, you’ll know which schools you like. I personally try to pick those I already know I like, most of the time. You start to feel like you’re part of their community.

Advice for someone considering becoming a substitute teacher?

Ever since becoming a substitute teacher and teaching elementary school kids, it’s brought me such joy to see their faces when I’m helping them learn.

Every class is different. You can't show fear or nervousness to children because they can smell your weakness. Don’t yell or lose your composure. When students misbehave, just write names down or call the office if it’s serious.

But seriously, I have told several of my friends to try substitute teaching and they’ve signed up as well—even friends in different states. Districts and states have slightly different requirements. You can’t beat the flexibility, especially if you are in grad school, like to travel, or have a freelance business.

Ready to become a substitute teacher?

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.