Meet Dan Morgan: Veteran turned Texas substitute teacher

Dan Morgan, a retired military veteran with an impressive background in teaching abroad and public administration, has spent the past two years as a substitute teacher with Scoot Education in Texas. Our Houston team honored him for having the most subbed days out of the whole state of Texas! We’re inspired by his dedication to student learning.

We sat down with him to hear about his journey, his experiences with Scoot, and his advice for new substitutes!

1. What grades and subjects do you usually teach with Scoot?

I’ve had the chance to teach almost every grade, from pre-K through high school. I’m certified in special education and math, but I teach everything from math and science to English Language Arts. My passion is definitely math, but I love stepping into any role and helping students wherever I’m needed.

2. Why did you start substitute teaching?

I actually found my passion for teaching while working abroad! I was a contractor for the State Department in Ukraine and noticed how driven their young people were. Many were trilingual and would approach me to practice English, often asking, “How can I get to the United States?”

When I returned to the U.S., I wanted to help our young people prepare for the global job market. Today’s opportunities are worldwide, and I wanted to empower students to succeed in that arena. Bringing my experiences to high school students has been incredibly rewarding.

3. What is your favorite thing about being a Scoot substitute? 

Scoot feels like family. I remember last year when a couple of Scoot consultants visited my campus. Even though I never met them in person, they immediately recognized me. It was like family showing up to check on you, which felt really special. 

Scoot really cares about your well-being. I’m willing to travel hour-long commutes to assignments because I know I’m supported. I was even honored by the region for having the most substitute days last year—something I didn’t even realize!

It means a lot to work for a company that recognizes your hard work and genuinely cares. It motivates me to give my best effort every day.

I love how they’ve grown in my region, too! When I started, Scoot worked mostly with a couple of charter schools, but now I see them on campuses all over. It feels good to work for a company that’s expanding and creating opportunities for subs like me.

4. Do you have a memorable moment from your time with Scoot?

One of my favorite moments happened at the school where I first started teaching. I was thrilled to return and run into former colleagues there.

But the most exciting part was seeing three of my former students who are now teaching themselves—one of whom is a coworker at my current campus!

Seeing their growth from eighth graders to working adults is incredibly rewarding. It feels like I had a hand in their journey.

5. What advice would you give to someone new to substitute teaching?

Classroom management is key. Without it, students won’t do the academic work.

Establish your expectations early on, and don’t be afraid to be firm when needed. When you step into a classroom as a sub, students are naturally going to test the boundaries.

Also, every school has its own views on managing student behavior. If you have a campus that has good support for subs, you’ll have an easier time. But just make it clear that you’re in charge and stay positive.

6. If you could describe Scoot Education in one word, what would it be?

Satisfying. I really appreciate the way Scoot supports its substitutes, and that keeps me coming back. Whether it’s the friendly check-ins from the team or just knowing that Scoot genuinely cares about our well-being, it feels good to work for a company that puts people first.

Dan’s story shows how impactful substitute teachers can be in students’ lives. We’re so grateful for the positivity and dedication he brings to classrooms across Texas. Thank you, Dan, for being such an inspiring part of the Scoot family!

This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.

Want to sub with us?

If you’re a current sub or someone looking for hands-on teaching experience, apply to Scoot Education! We’re an educational staffing company helping to create exceptional experiences in education.

As a Scoot sub, you’ll get 1-on-1 support through a personal education consultant, connect with job opportunities that are aligned to your needs and market leading pay.

Apply now