Texarkana Independent School District has increased pay for substitute teachers until Jan. 29, 2021, citing a higher demand and lower pool of teachers because of ramifications from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Substitute pay typically has been $100 per day for certified teachers and $75 per day for non-certified (those with a high school diploma, bachelor's degree or higher).
According to Chief Communications Officer Tina Veal-Gooch, the pay has now been increased to $150 for certified teachers and $100 for non-certified teachers, until Jan. 29, 2021.
Veal-Gooch said this time of the year is usually one that brings a higher demand for substitute teachers regardless, but COVID-19 has amplified that demand.
"Typically this time of year we have a higher demand for substitute teachers," Veal-Gooch said. "With COVID-19 that demand has increased. Our current substitute teaching pool is at 94. Ideally, we would like to be at 150. Right now many retirees are choosing not to do substitute teaching work because of COVID-19 concerns. This is usually the area where we pull from the most."
TISD's selling point for the substitute positions is that it's a nice short-term option for those needing immediate work.
"Substitute Teaching is a great opportunity for college students, retirees and those in between jobs," Veal-Gooch said. "And, with the increase in pay, it's a great time to earn extra income for the holidays."
The job description on TISD's website is as follows:
High School Diploma or GED required; Bachelor's Degree and/or TX Teacher Certification preferred.
Compensation:
$100 per day (with a Bachelor's Degree)
$150 per day (for a certified teacher)
Substitute applicants must complete interviews with Human Resources Office, background and reference check, and then orientation/training before employment. Applicants will be contacted for interviews as needed based on openings.