ALBEMARLE COUNTY, Va. (CBS19 NEWS) -- This school year, Albemarle County Public Schools is looking for substitute teachers.

Kristen Williams, the principal of Woodbrook Elementary, says substitute teachers are always needed, but the need has intensified due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Substitutes are an important part, they are what help a school run smoothly," she said. "They become a part of our community just like any other staff member. Children get to know them. They make a difference in children’s lives. So, they’re an important part of the school.”

The school is increasing the salary for substitute teachers. It will go from $97 per day to $140 per day.

Amanda Alger, a local mother and substitute teacher, says the job's flexible schedule is also a plus.

“Well, first of all, it’s easy," she said. "There is an app so you can choose exactly when you want to work, what classroom you want to work in, which school.”

Woodbrook is also looking to fill full-time positions. 

“Additionally, we have created new positions of school-based substitutes," said Eva McGehee, the substitute coordinator for ACPS. "So, starting this next school year, every school in the county will have at least one school-based substitute, which is a full-time position of a person who’s in the school every day ready to take whatever absence is needed."

Alger says this is a very rewarding job and it’s also nice to create bonds with the kids and the staff. 

"Feeling that I’ve done something important for the day, or when you’ve connected with a student that you didn’t expect to connect with,” she said. 

For more information on open positions in the school division, click here.