I'm a college professor who's been subbing in elementary schools. The pay isn't great, but public schools need teachers.

The author (not pictured) is a substitute teacher.

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• I've been a college professor for 15 years.
• When I noticed the teacher shortage in my public school district, I decided to substitute teach.
• Although the pay isn't great, I'm happy I get to connect and be with the kids.

I've been a college professor for years, but when I needed a change from the grind of university work, my husband suggested I try substitute teaching in our public schools.