Substitute teachers play a crucial role in students’ daily lives at Arlington High School. Nationwide, 86 percent of schools report struggling to find enough substitutes to fill vacancies. At AHS, substitutes such as Susan Brewer and Barbara Gray help keep classes running smoothly when teachers are away.

“I like subbing here at Arlington High because it’s just a great place to be, and I feel like I’m helping people while I’m here,” Brewer said.

While 27 percent of substitutes have only one to three years of classroom experience, Gray and Brewer bring more than 80 years of combined experience, making them two of the most seasoned educators at AHS.

“I enjoy being a part of young people’s lives—seeing them grow, seeing them from the time they were freshmen and then knowing them as seniors,” Brewer said. “To see them grow and change is very rewarding.”

For them, subbing is more than putting on a video and taking attendance. It’s about making a positive impact on students’ lives.

They say the best part of the job is helping students find their passion and prepare for the future.

“I want them to be able to go out and do what they can do and be successful,” Gray said.

Brewer worked in recreational therapy for older adults before becoming a substitute. She chose Arlington because one of her children, Blaine Brewer, coaches at the school.

“When I retired, one of my kids, Mr. Brewer, coached for Arlington, so I decided to sub here,” she said.

Substitute teachers like Gray and Brewer play a valuable role in the Arlington community, proving that even when the regular teacher is out, learning can continue without interruption.