Chicago Area Substitute Teacher Landscape
Understanding our local education ecosystem
680K+
Students in CPS
12-18%
Daily Teacher Absence Rate
68%
Unfilled Positions
540+ hrs
Classroom Learning Lost
Our Vision
Class Companion (Compañero) Program
Culture for Learning
Our Compañeros and Companions are prepared to keep learning moving forward—todos los días. Through strong instructional practices, clear routines, and engaging lessons, they ensure students stay supported, focused, and on track even when their teacher is away.
Learning & Connection
We honor the languages students bring into the classroom—su idioma es su poder. Our bilingual Compañeros and trained Companions support language development while building connection and confianza, helping students access learning in ways that feel natural, inclusive, and affirming.
Supportive Community
Substitutes shouldn’t feel like outsiders—they are parte del equipo. Our educators join a network with ongoing support, resources, and professional learning, ensuring they feel prepared, valued, and connected every step of the way.
Our Program
Educativo was created to ensure that every classroom continues to thrive—not just function—when a teacher is absent. We believe that substitute teachers are not just placeholders, but educadores who play a critical role in maintaining continuity, comunidad and connection, ensuring high-quality learning for students, especially in historically underserved communities.
Interested in changing substitute teaching? Join us as a Class Companion (Compañero) and lead with cultural fluency.
Class Compañeros
Class Compañeros are bilingual educators who build bridges between students, families, and schools. They lead with corazón and cultural fluency, ensuring learning continues seamlessly, empowering students daily.
Class Companions
Class Companions are English-speaking educators specially trained by Educativo to understand the academic, cultural and linguistic needs of all learners. They bring inclusive strategies, empathy, and classroom management rooted in cultural responsiveness.
Collecting Teacher and Student Perspectives
Educativo is dedicated to gathering real-world insights from both educators and students to better support our school communities. Your voice helps us close the learning gap and improve outcomes for all. Please select the option that best fits your perspective or join us in our mission.