Kalisha Carter

Kalisha Carter is a highly-requested  substitute teacher for the Uplift Education School District in Texas.

This former stay-at-home mom loves to work with young people. She founded a non-profit program to mentor at-risk children living in shelters. It gives her incredible satisfaction to work for the betterment of her community.

She says she often dreamed about becoming a teacher and the experience as a substitute teacher has given her the confidence to pursue her passion. She's now beginning to look at going to college to make her dream come true.

In this Q&A, Ms. Carter shares about her experiences and offers inspiration to new substitute teachers.

Why did you become a substitute educator?

After my own children were all in school, I wanted to work outside my home. I have always enjoyed working with children and wanted to become a teacher. I don't have a teaching degree, so assisting in the classroom seemed to be the right next step.

What do you enjoy most about being a substitute teacher?

What I love the most is working with the kids—especially the ones who are behind and helping them with their homework. I make time in my day to support them if they have questions before we move onto the next lesson.

What advice would you give to new substitute teachers?

• You have to be a positive role model and lead by example.
• Be confident in the classroom. Show students that you know what you are doing. The minute you show weakness, the students will see that and take advantage of you.
• Your job is to educate the students, but that's easier when you build a trusted relationship with them.