So you want to be a substitute teacher

So - you want to be a substitute teacher?

Of all the jobs in education, substitute teaching is one of the most difficult and challenging. On the other hand, unless you are a felon (or have gotten on the bad side of some school administrator), getting substitute teaching jobs is a simple matter - and these jobs offer far more variety and flexibility than any other job in education.

Regardless of whether you are seeking substitute or contract employment however, the credential process is the same. Substitute teachers must have an up-to-date certificate, and are subject to the same requirements. Substitute teachers must also take between 20 and 30 hours of continuing education every year in order to keep their certification.

These continuing education requirements can vary, depending on your state and when you earned your certificate. Generally, educational requirements for teachers are getting increasingly strict, cumbersome and expensive. In addition to a four-year degree from a accredited university or college, earning a teaching certificate requires 1-2 years of additional coursework in psychology, legal issues, and pedagogy. Many states now require that a teacher be endorsed in more than one area, and a few expect that one employed as a classroom teacher will earn a Master's degree within a set time as well.

If you are considering a career as a substitute teacher, you should weigh the economics carefully. Substitute teaching is a great choice for those married to a professional with a good income, or a single person with few responsibilities. It is a good choice if you are pursuing an activity outside of education, such as music or theatre.

Keep in mind however that even if you are able to substitute teach every day, your yearly income is unlikely to exceed $18,000, and it will probably be less than that, since you will have sick days and no district guarantees any substitute a minimum number of days. If you are planning on having a family, remember that you will be graduating with an education debt of $25,000, which will eventually eat up $250 a month of your disposable income. Also remember that substitute teachers receive nothing in the way of health care benefits - not even paid sick leave.

Substitute teaching can be ideal for those who are married to someone with a good job or career or those who enjoy the gypsy life, or who have an additional source of income. To find out more about becoming a substitute teacher, the best place is to contact your state's Office of Public Instruction or State School Board. These bureaucracies generally maintain websites that outline the specific requirements for obtaining licensure and certificate maintenance in order to substitute teach, as well as information of the various school districts.

About the author:
Susan Slobac worked as a substitute teacher in order to gain the experience required of a full-time educator. Learning valuable skills along the way, she made the transition to full-time teacher and continues to write on subjects related to education, including articles on how to become a substitute teacher.