Many are using substitute teaching as a way to make ends meet until the economy rebounds:

"We are currently this year at 98% fill rate so that's very good...last year we were about 88%," said Olivia Brown.

As for Lackey, working with kids is definitely a career choice in her future.

"I can be trying sometimes but it's worth it at the end of the day," said Lackey.

So far this school year, Metro has hired more than 500 new substitute teachers - filling nearing all of their teacher vacancies.

The new teachers can also earn a nice pay check. Those without degrees make about $73 a day. Those with a degree make about $83 a day. It's certainly a short term career choice worth considering for those qualified and out of work.