From Substitute to Certified: A TeacherReady Success Story
October 14, 2025 | TeacherReady
For much of his life, teaching was the last thing he imagined himself doing. After a long career in journalism, Huey Freeman began substitute teaching and quickly discovered how rewarding a career in education would be. What started as filling in for different grades soon became something more meaningful.
“When I began subbing, I liked it. Pre-K to 12th grade. The kids were mostly fun to be with.”
That enjoyment grew when he was asked to take on a long-term role as a special education teacher. For the first time, he had his own homeroom, co-taught multiple classes and connected with various students. This experience showed him that teaching wasn’t just a temporary job, but rather a career he wanted to pursue.
“I loved it. Every day I co-taught... I got to know many students on a day-to-day basis. I was able to help some with their assignments. Two of the teachers were outstanding and were great role models for me.”
Encouraged by colleagues, he began looking for a pathway to earning his teaching certification and found the University of West Florida TeacherReady program. From the start, he was impressed with the quality of the program.
“Everything about the TeacherReady Program is first class.”
One of the most impactful components of the program was finding a mentor teacher. Though the search was challenging at first, it ultimately led him to Monticello Middle School, where he was paired with a mentor who helped shape his teaching journey.
“I especially like the way I was prodded to find a mentor who would take me on as a student teacher. That turned out to be the best possible situation. My mentor, Mrs. O’Brien, is one of the greatest, or the greatest, teachers I have ever encountered.”
Beyond the mentorship, he also found encouragement and support from his program advisor.
“My advisor is one of the greatest people on earth.”
Now fully certified, he looks forward to leading his own classroom with the same dedication and care his mentors showed him.
“So, now I am a certified teacher, and I will take on the awesome responsibility of teaching young people, including reluctant students such as I was.”
His journey is proof that with TeacherReady, it’s never too late to find your passion and confidently step into teaching. Ready to start your journey as an educator? Reach out to the TeacherReady team to learn more about our program and how it can help you reach your goals.
