Emiliano Vera’s journey into education began unexpectedly. While working as a full-time substitute teacher in a rural district deeply impacted by the teacher shortage, he quickly found himself taking on the responsibilities of a classroom teacher. What started as a transitional job after completing his master’s degree soon became a calling.

When the pandemic forced schools online, Emiliano saw firsthand the gaps in preparedness and support for educators. As his district lifted safety measures sooner than he was comfortable with—especially while caring for an elderly relative—he sought a remote teaching opportunity that aligned with his skills and priorities. That’s when he found Saga Education.

Through Saga, Emiliano gained not just stability, but clarity about his future in education. The experience reaffirmed his strengths as an educator and introduced him to new career possibilities beyond the traditional classroom, including curriculum planning and hybrid learning opportunities. With resources from Saga and AmeriCorps, as well as professional development through Ascend, he is actively exploring new roles that leverage his 13 years of experience.

In a challenging job market, Saga has provided Emiliano with the financial support and career guidance to continue making an impact in education—wherever that path may lead.

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