Certified Special Education Substitute Teacher

Ready to make an impact in your community while getting paid? Become a substitute teacher with Kokua in Houston, TX and create powerful moments that shift students’ perception of what’s possible.

We are currently hiring Special Education substitute teachers to support schools in Houston for the 2026-27 school year. You can start the interview process right away!

In case you’re wondering, it’s pronounced Koh-KOO-ah. In Hawaiian, Kokua means to come together to fulfill a need and we’re excited to have you join us in connecting students with classroom role models who can empower them to be their best.

Perks of substitute teaching:

• Positively contribute to your community - spark a love for learning with your students
• Help to solve the teacher shortage crisis in America
• Flexible schedule - up to 5 days/week, allowing you to pursue other passions
• Work Hours
  • Some schools may have earlier or later needs, so flexibility is a plus, but you’ll always know the schedule before accepting an assignment
  • Start and end times vary by school, but most assignments begin between 7:00–8:00 AM and end between 3:45–4:45 PM
• Add representation to the classroom to help kids learn from your unique experience
• Autonomy - choose the teaching assignments & locations you’re most excited about

With Kokua, you’ll get:

• Weekly paychecks - earn up to $197 daily
  • $176 per day for daily assignments and $197 per day for long-term assignments
• A quick hiring process - receive an offer within 1 week of applying or less
• The chance to teach close to home - choose from KIPP schools across theHouston area
• Your foot in the door for full-time positions at high-performing K-12 schools
• A W-2, meaning no fussing with taxes at year-end
• A supportive community who cares about your success - access Kokua's support team from 6 AM - 8 PM every day
• The opportunity to lead classrooms and help create a safe, supportive learning environment
  • Step in where needed throughout the school day to support your campus - this could include lunch/recess supervision, hall and bathroom monitoring, tutoring, and proctoring during testing season

You’ll need:

• 1+ year(s) classroom teaching experience, preferably in a special education setting
• Texas Teacher Certification in Special Education (EC-12) - proof of valid certification required
• Confidence to manage a classroom of students
• Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently
• Strong belief that every child has a unique & powerful gift to share with the world
• Ability to pass state & federal background checks
  • Out-of-pocket costs will be reimbursed after 10 teaching assignments

*A valid Texas Teacher’s certificate is required for all Special Education teaching positions. Proof of licensure will be required upon applying. For more information about obtaining certification click here .

About Kokua Education

Founded by a former teacher, Kokua has been connecting talented individuals to K-12 schools for more than 13 years. We currently operate in schools across the country, and serve schools across the Houston area, building a growing and diverse network of dedicated substitute teachers who want to make a difference in students’ lives. We believe that one role model can change a student’s life forever.

As our Hawaiian name says, Kokua is about coming together as a community and paving a pathway for generations to come.