From stay-at-home mom to paraprofessional to teacher

After stepping away from her teaching degree and becoming a stay-at-home mom, Aurrianna wasn’t sure if education was still in her future.

But in 2023, she took a chance and joined Scoot! She started off in many paraprofessional roles—and found more than just a flexible job. She rediscovered her passion and launched her career in education again.

In just two months with Scoot, Aurrianna discovered a deep fulfillment and joy serving students with special needs. Her experience reignited her passion for teaching and reminded her of the impact a caring adult can have on a kid’s life.

For stay-at-home parents reentering the workforce or anyone dreaming of becoming a teacher, Aurrianna’s story shows how substitute teaching is a great stepping stone to exploring a career in education.

In this Q&A, Aurrianna shares her journey, her favorite moments, and why she believes anyone considering subbing should “just go for it.”

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Q: What is your name, and what kind of classroom do you help teach?

My name is Aurrianna Jackson, and I’m open to all subjects. I’ve taught sixth grade, third grade, and first grade classrooms—I love them all.

It’s great to move between different age groups because kids of all ages need support in so many areas, especially emotionally.

Sometimes people think sixth graders are more mature and don’t need as much guidance as kindergartners or first graders. But honestly, they need just as much—if not more—because they’re our future.

So, working with older students is rewarding, but it’s also fun to be with the little ones. I really love it all. It’s so much fun.

Q: How long have you been subbing with Scoot?

Maybe about two months—not even that long—and I’ve already had some great experiences.

Q: What led you to start substitute teaching?

I originally went to school to become a teacher, but along the way I realized school just wasn’t for me. I went back several times and ended up in so much debt.

Then I became a stay-at-home mom, and then realized I was ready to find myself again and my passion.

That’s when I found Scoot–they found me–and I love it. I’m so grateful for Scoot for this opportunity. It’s really fun, and I love it.

Q: What led you to choose Scoot?

It was more reasonable for me and my schedule–and the staff made a big difference.

The people at Scoot were very reassuring. They always reached out, kept me updated, and I loved that.

I loved the fact that I didn’t have to overextend myself. They were compassionate for me and my situation–being a single mom and getting back into the field again. They gave me a chance, so that’s why I took it.

Q: What’s your favorite thing about being a Scoot sub?

I like making my own schedule. That’s really beneficial for my personal life. I also enjoy bouncing around different schools and experiencing the different dynamics in each area of the city.

It’s cool because you get to work in high-risk areas and in more resourced ones, and through it all, I get to bring my full self and help kids.

At the end of the day, when I hear, “Bye, Ms. Jackson!”—it just melts my heart. I love it. I really enjoy what I do.

Q: What’s something you learned as a substitute teacher?

I’ve learned what it really means to have a learning curve. I don’t like to say ‘disability.’ I prefer ‘learning curve’ because all kids are different, and they learn in different ways.

A lot of times you hear adults or other teachers put stigmas on kids, but in reality, kids just have different learning styles and needs.

It was really great to work with students with special needs in a resource room and be able to support them. That experience brought a lot to my attention.

There are so many kids who need support and teachers who truly care.

And honestly, a lot of those kids don’t need to be in resource rooms. They just need guidance and love. Realizing that was a big eye-opener for me.

Q: Tell me about a great experience you’ve had as a substitute teacher.

I was working at a school with the resource kids or special needs kids–and there’s one child who struggled with anger issues.

It felt really great to comfort him because a lot of staff couldn’t, and they’ve been working with him since the beginning of the year.

So, for me to jump in, be able to call him my best friend, and help him stay calm to the point where he doesn’t want me to leave–that’s really one of my favorite memories–when he’s upset and I can help him.

That’s probably my greatest experience so far—working with special needs children. That’s really fulfilling for me.

Q: What advice would you give to someone subbing for the very first time?

Go in with an open mind. Relax, be patient, and be supportive because honestly, we don’t know what these young children are facing. It’s important to just be there for them.

Have fun with it. Be stern when needed but also be fun and just love on those kids. You build a real attachment.

Even working in a resource classroom, I never thought I’d consider doing this full-time, but here I am! You never know the experience you might gain from it.

Q: Would you like to shout out your consultant?

Nancy —love her, love her, love her! Nancy, shout out to you!

Q: What would you say to someone considering subbing with Scoot?

Go for it. That’s really it—just go for it.

You never know what you’ll gain from the experience. You learn so much, you build love for these kids, and you get to see different dynamics and backgrounds. It’s amazing–so just go for it.

Q: Describe your experience with Scoot in one word.

Very satisfied. I love it and I haven’t had a bad experience yet.

I’m so appreciative of the company for allowing me to represent them. So yes–satisfied is the word.

Aurrianna’s ongoing impact

Since the 2024/2025 school year, she has become a full-time elementary school teacher in Las Vegas. We celebrate the difference she’s making every day!

Closing thoughts

Aurrianna’s story is just one of many that shows how substitute teaching can be a fulfilling step into education.

If you’re ready to take the first step—whether you’re returning to work or exploring a career in education—Scoot Education is here to support you.

Apply now