Last week, we had the distinct pleasure of announcing that Swing has raised $38 million in Series C funding in a round led by Apax Partners and Reach Capital. You can read the press release for the announcement here. 

First and foremost, we want to express our gratitude to our substitute teachers and schools. You are the reason we created this company and we could not have achieved this milestone without you. We are also endlessly grateful for the Swing team and what we have worked together to achieve over the last eight years. 

That being said, we recognize that there is so much more to do. 

A path forward for Swing

These funding announcements are often seen as a finish line, but for us, this is the start of the race. This latest round of investment validates what we’ve done so far, and, more than anything, it highlights the size of the issue in front of us. It also provides a path forward to solve the substitute shortage, which affects schools, students, and educators every day. 

Our mission is to ensure that learning never stops. This isn’t about putting a warm body in the classroom. It’s about making sure that students are able to continue on the same track with their lessons, their curriculum, and their education even when their classroom teacher is not present. 

Staying true to our DNA

We aim to deliver an even better experience, an even better product for both our substitute teachers and our schools. We see so much opportunity in this space: opportunities for districts to galvanize their communities and opportunities to better support substitute teachers on any part of their journey. As we work to realize our mission, we will continue to redefine what it means to be a substitute teacher. 

At the same time, the fundamental DNA of Swing will stay the same. We’re going to do things in a values-driven way. 

We’ve been friends since high school and the care rooted in our friendship is foundational to Swing. Eight years in and we still care. We care deeply about our mission, our substitute teachers, our partner schools, and our employees. We are so proud that this is our life’s work.

A call for substitute teachers

Finally, for anyone interested in becoming a substitute teacher: schools and students across the country need you now more than ever. 

Substitute teaching is not an easy job, but it is fulfilling and is a great jumping off point for your career, whatever that may be.

While you build your future, you have the option to choose your schedule, where you work, and what you teach. And as a substitute teacher, you’ll learn patience, how to adapt and think on your feet, how to lead with compassion, and more – valuable skills you can apply in any career path. 

As Swing sets out on the next phase of our journey, know that if you choose to substitute teach, we will be there with you every step of the way. We encourage everyone to sign up to get started as a substitute teacher and make a difference for the students in your community today.