Tulsa Public Schools Looks To Hire 100 Substitute Teachers

Tulsa Public Schools is trying to recruit 100 people to be substitute teachers. 

They said they need people willing to work because teacher shortages are higher than ever. Tulsa public schools said it's in desperate need of substitute teachers and it's the best bet to keep their doors open.

"To say there is a need for substitutes is an understatement," said Joanne Moore.

Joanne Moore has three kids in Tulsa public schools. She could see how difficult it was on teachers doing virtual learning, and then she heard they needed substitute teachers.

"That hit me here," she said. "My children are part of the Tulsa Public Schools system, which means they are directly affected by teachers and substitutes and the lack thereof."

Moore said she felt called to apply and go through the training. Now, she's been subbing at her daughter's elementary school for a month and has been assigned to teach a 3rd-grade class long-term.

"I have far more gratitude for what they do and what they are doing," she said.

TPS said the need is so big they've rolled out a new campaign to recruit 100 people to become "dedicated" substitute teachers. The district said right now they have 500 active subs on their list, but only 180 of them have responded when called since August, so they need people who will step up all the time.

"When we don't have adults in our buildings we do have to move to a virtual setting," said Dr. Ebony Johnson.

Dr. Ebony Johnson is the Chief Learning Officer at TPS and said she encourages people to give it a chance.

The district provides the training and support and she said it's incredibly rewarding and helps relieve exhausted teachers and staff.

"It's critically important," she said. "This is an apparent need, and we believe the community can help us get the 100 subs."

"We cannot sit idly by and let 10 percent carry on," said Moore. "We all have to pitch in."

Eligible applicants for these positions must hold a minimum high school diploma or GED equivalent, pass a background check and drug screening, and complete the district’s substitute training.

Interested applicants can learn more by visiting tulsaschools.org/substitute or calling 918-746-6310.