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RAPID CITY, SD — A Rapid City mother of three is encouraging others in the community to consider substitute teaching after discovering a passion for working inside Rapid City Area Schools.
Caitlin Scully, a substitute teacher and longtime Rapid City resident, recently shared her experience during an episode of the Public School Podcast, where she discussed balancing family life, stepping into classrooms across the district and supporting students and staff where help is needed most.
Scully, whose children attend schools within the district, said she decided to begin substitute teaching after her youngest child entered kindergarten. She said she wanted a role that allowed her to stay involved in the schools while still maintaining flexibility for her family and work responsibilities at her family’s upholstery business.
“This is my second year subbing,” Scully said during the podcast. “I knew I wanted to be involved in the school district, and I’ve just been loving it.”
Scully said substitute teaching offers flexibility through an app that allows substitutes to select available days, manage schedules and communicate directly with teachers when emergencies arise. She said that flexibility has made it possible to continue supporting her family while also helping classrooms that need coverage.
Throughout the conversation, Scully described the importance of creating a calm and welcoming environment for students, especially younger children who may struggle with changes in routine. She said she focuses on getting down to a child’s eye level, introducing herself and reassuring students that they are safe and supported throughout the day.
She also discussed the challenges substitute teachers face, including stepping into classrooms without detailed lesson plans and trying to keep students focused while maintaining a positive atmosphere. Scully said flexibility and patience are some of the most important qualities for substitutes to have.
Scully said support from teachers and school staff has played a major role in making the experience rewarding. She noted that educators and staff members are appreciative of substitute teachers and willing to answer questions or assist when needed.
The Rapid City substitute teacher also emphasized the importance of required safety training, including ALICE training, which prepares school staff and substitutes to respond during emergency situations and potential threats on campus.
As Rapid City Area Schools continues to face a need for substitute teachers, Scully encouraged anyone considering the role to give it a try, even if the process initially feels intimidating.
“If you’re thinking about it and you’re nervous, I want to encourage you to just go for it,” Scully said. “We always need substitutes. We’re still very short.”
Scully said substitute teaching has also allowed her to become more connected to her children’s schools, teachers and classmates while supporting public education in the community.
