Wrangell schools are inviting neighbors, parents and retirees to help in a very practical way: Step in as substitute teachers when classrooms need a hand.

Superintendent Joshua Garrett said the district is working to build a deeper sub pool — and he’s showing what that looks like by taking a turn at the front of the room himself.

He said the district would ideally keep a list of about 10 reliable substitutes it can call on any given day. Having that many people ready to go gives principals more flexibility when teachers are out. But he knows that kind of availability can be hard to maintain.

“I understand there are challenges to having that kind of flexibility and availability.”

To make the point, Garrett spent Thursday and Friday, Oct. 23-24, covering for teacher Jack Carney, who was traveling with the high school wrestling team. The superintendent’s two-day schedule spanned weightlifting, Alaska studies, government, two sections of U.S. history and seventh- and eighth-grade English.

“I actually volunteered because I wanted to get an idea of how things run here in the high school classrooms,” Garrett said. “It’s been pretty enjoyable.”

He said subbing can be unpredictable. Some weeks are calm. Other weeks bring a wave of unexpected absences from illness, family emergencies or travel for student activities. The district’s needs can swing overnight, which is why substitutes who answer early morning calls are so valuable.

“Beyond the logistics, there’s also the personal side,” the superintendent said. “Substitutes often have to rearrange their own schedules with little notice. We really appreciate the people who are willing to do that for our kids.”

Garrett said he understands that some people might hesitate because of old perceptions about subbing.

“Some people might have a misconception of what to expect. Or maybe they remember what they were like for substitute teachers when they were in school,” he said. “But the experience of teaching in this school is pretty unique. These students are phenomenal. They’re focused and curious. It’s a pleasure to work with them in the classroom.”

In a social media post, the district described the ideal sub as warm, dedicated and flexible. The message stressed that substitutes make it possible to keep learning on track when regular teachers are away.

“If you love working with children and want to make a positive difference in our community, this is a wonderful opportunity to support our students and schools,” Garrett wrote. “Whether you’re a retired educator, a parent, or simply someone who enjoys helping others, we’d love to have you join our team.”

To help recruit more candidates, the school board voted Aug. 18 to raise pay. Substitutes now earn $17 per hour, or $127.50 per day, up from $16. Those who hold an Alaska teaching certificate earn $18 per hour.

The district aims to keep the path to the classroom straightforward. Applicants must pass a background check and demonstrate they can work well with children. Beyond that, Garrett said, the district welcomes people from all kinds of professional backgrounds and experience levels.

Classroom experience helps, but it is not required. Dependability, patience and a willingness to follow lesson plans matter most.

Garrett said building a dependable sub bench helps everyone: Students keep up with lessons, teachers return to classrooms without a backlog, and schools avoid last-minute schedule changes. He called it a community effort that pays off in steady learning and calmer school days.

“Substitutes play a vital role in maintaining high-quality learning while our regular teachers are away,” he said. “We’re grateful for the people who already help, and we’re excited to welcome more.”

Those interested in learning more or applying can contact the school district at 907-874-2347 or email kpowell@wpsd.us. The district can answer questions about scheduling, pay and qualifications, and help new applicants get started.