November 17th marks National Substitute Educator’s Day, and Weakley County Schools is highlighting this vital role that supports students, faculty, and staff across the district. As cold and flu season approaches, additional substitutes for a variety of roles are in demand.
Substitutes are always needed throughout the school year. From illnesses to field trips and everything between, there are a multitude of reasons to call in for the help of a substitute. Along with support in the classroom, substitutes are essential to cover for food service staff, bus drivers, clerical/office personnel, school nurses, and more.
“We have outstanding substitutes who are beloved in the schools. We’re always recruiting, and we encourage anyone interested to apply,” said Assistant Director of Schools Betsi Foster. “It’s a great way to identify if a career in education might be a good fit. Flexibility, good pay, and the support of school personnel makes substitute teaching a great option for someone who enjoys a unique, meaningful, and fun workday.”
No prior experience working in education is required to apply for a substitute role, but an aptitude to work with students in a school setting is important. Interested applicants must apply at the Weakley County Board of Education, complete mandatory training, and complete a TBI criminal background check.
The district’s Substitute Coordinator, Christie Lifsey, believes that great hours and flexibility are appealing to someone looking for versatility in the work day.
“We have substitutes who work from one day each week while others work as much as they can. The hours are very convenient and it’s a role that has great flexibility. Moreover, being in the classroom and working with the students makes the day lively and fun. It’s a win-win,” said Lifsey.
Dresden Middle School Principal David Lewellen said that it’s clear how much his educators appreciate substitute teachers.
“It’s important to teachers that their students are still learning and cared for when they must be out of the classroom. Having the trust that a professional is there to ensure that educational needs are being met means so much to our teachers, students, and their parents. Our subs do a wonderful job for us,” said Lewellen.
For more information about substitute teaching or to start the application process, contact Mrs. Christie Lifsey at the Weakley County Board of Education at (731) 364-2247.
For more about Weakley County Schools, visit weakleycountyschools.com.