Being a substitute teacher can be a difficult but rewarding job. The pay can start out pretty low (around $30-$40 a day) or even go up to the same pay as a regular teacher, depending on the substitute’s education background, the duration of the job taken, and the school system worked for. Generally the pay runs on a sliding scale, with certified teachers making the most and high school graduates with no college education making the least.
Although it can be difficult to work with students that that will not be seen day after day, "subbing" offers a flexible schedule. Here is a breakdown of some pros and cons:
Pros:
- Flexible work
- In demand
- Networking potential
- Working with students of all ages and backgrounds
Cons:
- Not knowing if work is available until morning of job
- Pay can be minimal
- Slow start up if not familiar with local schools
- Teaching different groups of children on a daily basis
Applying for a Job
Requirements vary from one school system to another. It is important to directly contact the district to find out its criteria. Some require only a high school diploma, while others require at least 60 college credits or the completion of a special course or test. Some also require a short seminar on substitute teaching basics.
Any person working with children will need to expect both a negative TB test and a criminal background check to be required. Note that a TB test takes a few days to read, and so will need to be completed in advance of application.
Criteria that may be considered include:
- Education
- Background check
- Seminar/Class
- TB or other medical tests
- Personal interview
What Substitute Teachers Do
Substitute teachers perform many duties, and have to be prepared for many varying situations. Some teachers call a substitute well in advance and have therefore left detailed lessons. Others have to call at the last minute, leaving the sub to plan the day.
Basic Tasks Performed:
- To teach the children
- To monitor the children’s behavior
- To perform school duties as assigned
Most teachers will explain basic scheduling to the substitute, and any special circumstances. It is important that the sub takes an active role in making sure he/she knows what to expect when entering the classroom.
Things to ask the teacher:
- Are there special duties to perform, such as lunchroom or playground monitor?
- Where is the classroom schedule posted?
- Are there lesson plans?
- Are copies of assignments already made?
- Are there any students with a special need to consider, such as medicine needed or injury?
- Which students will know and understand the class routine and can help if needed?
- What is the expected arrival and departure time at the school?
- What is the teacher’s or school’s policy on hall passes, etc?
- What are the behavior expectations and what are the consequences for negative behavior?
Other Things to Consider
- Keep a log of time so as to have a clear idea of how much pay should be received.
- Use the opportunity to talk to other teachers to establish a good base of work.
- Write a short note to the teacher at the end of the day outlining how the day went and if there were any issues.
- Always bring a packet of worksheets or writing prompts appropriate to the age group to fill up any excess time. Games can also be helpful.
- Have a set of rules established that can be shared with each new class first thing so that the children know what to expect. They should be short, to the point, and there should not be too many of them. These can be anything from telling the children that if they finish their assignment early, they should read a book to not talking in the hallways.
Although teaching is never an easy job, following these tips may make the transition a little clearer and simpler.
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