We’re spotlighting Jesica L., who chose to be a substitute teacher with CCE because she gets to travel, meet new people, experience different schools, and continuously learn and grow.

<h2>Substitute Teacher Jesica L.</h2><p>At Cross Country Education, we’re proud to work with caring, enthusiastic educational professionals from across the nation who love helping kids succeed. This week, we’re celebrating substitute teacher Jesica L. We asked Jesica what motivated her to work with kids, what she enjoys about working with Cross Country Education, and what advice she would share with others who are interested in substitute teaching. Here’s what she had to say:</p><h3>What influenced your decision to work in schools as a substitute teacher?</h3><p>There were many personal factors that influenced my decision to work in schools. Growing up as a child, I always had a sense of wanting to help others and make a difference. I always had so much love and support from my administrators, counselors and teachers that they had continued to inspire me to want to help as well. I started volunteering for schools helping students, classrooms and administration. Then, during college, I started working for schools, and I found myself loving it. It pushed me to continue to work with schools because I find being able to help students and parents very rewarding and humbling and I also enjoy meeting families and hearing their stories. It truly helps me grow as a person as I continue to pursue my desire to help others and make a change both educationally and emotionally.</p><h3>What do you like about working with Cross Country Education?</h3><p>I love the opportunities Cross Country Education offers: the opportunity to travel, meet different schools, meet new people, and continuously learn and grow. Before joining Cross Country Education, I always felt stuck not being able to learn more and being unable to move forward or travel. Since working with Cross Country Education, it has opened many doors for me both professionally and personally. I am more confident about my work and what I want to do in my near future. The CCE Team has been so super supportive since the very start that I couldn't more thankful and happy in what I do.</p><h3>What experiences have you enjoyed or appreciated while working within the schools CCE partners with?</h3><p>I have enjoyed being able to meet the many different communities that schools work with and how they support both students and families. The many schools we work with inspire me to figure out new ways to reach out to families and schools and find solutions to help them continue to the amazing work they do. Ultimately, these schools show so much diversity, and I get the experience to see both the challenging moments as well as the achievements they make, and I get to be part of that. I would have to say that it is truly amazing to know that we have amazing people within the educational field that show so much support and love and that we get to be part of that change.</p><h3>What kind of advice would you give to those starting out as a substitute teacher?</h3><p>Trust the processes and be open to continuously learning. I've learned that in this field, it will come with many testing moments that can be challenging, some disheartening, but in the end, it becomes rewarding when you get to see how you can help students and families. This field is very competitive and trying, so the key is to surround yourself with positive, encouraging and caring people who want to see you grow. Make sure that you have clear communication, and don't be afraid to reach out to the CCE team because they are here to help, and you are never alone. Take care of yourself both mentally and physically and nurture your inner child. Remember that you are defined by who you want to be and not by circumstances that are around you. You are the love and change you desire to see. Hard times come and go but, it is in those moments that you experience the most growth.</p><p>Thank you, Jesica, for your dedication to the students, families, and schools you serve – and thanks for sharing your experience and insight to inspire others who might be interested in teaching!</p><p>Many professionals like Jesica find that substitute teaching is an ideal option. For example, taking a sub assignment can be a great way to work with students without having to make a long-term commitment. Also, if you’re considering pursuing a degree to become a full-time teacher but want exposure to the school environment before diving in, subbing might be the perfect arrangement for you. It can also be an excellent option if you’re a student pursuing a teaching degree or if you’re a retired professional and want to work part-time.</p><h2>About Cross Country Education</h2><p>Cross Country Education is educator-led, student-driven, and solutions-oriented. With over 50 years of combined dedicated expertise, we service the education industry exclusively. Focusing our knowledge and resources on engaging with and understanding educational organizations, industry trends, and leadership needs, we provide a wide range of services to our educational partners to meet their individual needs, including special education and substitute services. We specialize in substitute teacher and instructional assistants, special education service providers, healthcare staff, early childhood education teachers, educator search services, consultation, and training. Cross Country Education, formerly DirectEd and Mediscan, is part of the Cross Country Healthcare family, one of the leading healthcare and education staffing companies in the nation.</p><h2>Education Jobs</h2><p>Check out our <a href="https://www.crosscountryeducation.com/job-search-results?what=education&amp;&amp;where=" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">education jobs</a> today and discover how our experienced team of talent professionals at Cross Country Education can find the ideal school-based position for you!</p><p><br></p>

Employee Spotlight – Jesica L., Substitute Teacher