Judson ISD Celebrates Volunteers and Substitute Teachers Who Help Keep Schools Strong
In every school community, there are people whose contributions often happen quietly behind the scenes. They help classrooms run smoothly, support campus events, assist staff members, and ensure students continue learning when unexpected absences occur. At Judson Independent School District, those efforts recently took center stage during the district's annual Substitute and Volunteer of the Year celebration.
The June 5 event recognized individuals from campuses across Judson ISD who have dedicated their time, energy, and talents to supporting students and educators. Each campus selected one Volunteer of the Year and one Substitute of the Year, honoring the people whose service helps create positive learning environments throughout the district.
For families across the Judson ISD community, the recognition serves as a reminder that public education is strengthened not only by teachers and administrators, but also by the many community members who choose to invest their time in local schools.
Honoring the People Who Make a Difference Every Day
While volunteers and substitute teachers serve in different capacities, both play critical roles in supporting students and keeping schools operating effectively.
During the celebration, Judson ISD Superintendent Dr. Jacklich thanked honorees for the lasting impact they make on students' lives.
“You made not only us better as a school district, but you touched the lives of our students in a much more positive way,” he said. “So from the bottom of our heart, all of us in the administration, our Board of Trustees, and our entire school district, please accept our sincere appreciation for everything that you do.”
Board Trustee Suzanne Kenoyer highlighted how much campuses depend on volunteers and substitute teachers throughout the school year. From helping coordinate events and supporting teachers to stepping into classrooms when educators are absent, these individuals provide essential support that often goes unnoticed.
Kenoyer compared the school community to a three-legged stool, explaining that students and staff represent two of the legs, while volunteers and substitutes form the third. Without that support system, she noted, schools would struggle to function as effectively.
Why Volunteers Matter in Judson ISD
Volunteers help create the welcoming, connected atmosphere many families experience on Judson ISD campuses. Their contributions can range from assisting with field trips and special events to supporting classrooms and campus activities.
For parents and guardians interested in getting involved, Judson ISD offers several pathways to volunteer.
Parents and guardians volunteering on campus are not required to complete the district's volunteer application. Instead, they simply check in through the Verkada Verification System at their campus using a driver's license or government-issued photo ID.
Individuals who wish to chaperone off-campus field trips must complete the district's Volunteer Application each school year. Applications should be submitted at least seven to ten days before the scheduled field trip and are available through the Judson ISD website.
All volunteers must be at least 18 years old.
Opportunities for Future Substitute Teachers
The celebration also highlighted the important role substitute teachers play in maintaining continuity for students when classroom teachers are unavailable.
Judson ISD continues to recruit substitute teachers and offers flexible scheduling opportunities throughout the school year. Interested applicants must complete an online application, submit two supervisor references, undergo required fingerprinting and background checks, and attend district orientation and training before accepting assignments.
The district offers daily substitute pay based on qualifications:
- Non-degreed substitutes: $90-$100 per day
- Individuals with 60 or more college hours: $100-$110 per day
- Certified teachers and qualified nurses: $125-$135 per day
Higher rates apply on Mondays and Fridays.
District officials note that substitute teachers are often among the first people students encounter during unexpected schedule changes, making their professionalism and dedication especially important.
A Community Investment in Students
As Judson ISD continues serving one of the San Antonio area's growing student populations, district leaders emphasized that volunteers and substitute teachers remain essential partners in student success.
Whether helping with a school event, supervising a field trip, supporting a classroom, or ensuring instruction continues during a teacher absence, these individuals contribute to a stronger educational experience for thousands of students each year.
The district expressed gratitude not only to the campus honorees recognized during the ceremony but also to all volunteers and substitute teachers who dedicate their time to supporting Judson ISD schools.
For residents looking to make a difference in local education, the celebration serves as a reminder that even a few hours of service can have a meaningful impact on students, teachers, and the broader school community.
For information about volunteering or becoming a substitute teacher with Judson ISD, residents can visit the district's website or contact Human Resources for assistance.
As the district prepares for another school year, the message from district leaders was clear: Judson ISD is stronger because of the volunteers and substitute teachers who choose to serve its students.
Stay tuned to My Neighborhood News for more Judson ISD updates, school news, and community stories that matter to local families.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.