How to Become a Substitute Teacher for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

With schools nationwide experiencing teacher shortages, substitute teachers are in high demand. Employment for substitute teachers is projected to grow steadily due to increased enrollment and staffing gaps in K-12 institutions. A 2023 report from the National Center for Education Statistics found that over 30% of U.S. schools are facing teacher shortages, with many relying on substitutes to fill gaps. Some states even offer alternative pathways, such as emergency permits, to help fill vacancies, creating more opportunities for those looking to enter the field.

If you’re considering a career as a substitute teacher, understanding the necessary skills, credentials, and preparation is essential. This guide will cover the requirements for entering the field, along with employment outlook, earning potential, and pathways for professional growth.

Key Things You Should Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher

There are at least 49,000 vacant teaching positions nationwide as of school year 2024-2025. With the teacher shortage, schools are relying more on substitutes to fill gaps, creating steady job opportunities for this role across the country.
The average hourly wage for substitute teachers in the United States is approximately $20, equating to an annual salary of around $42,244. Long-term roles and additional certifications can lead to higher wages, with some states offering benefits for those in extended assignments.
44% of substitute teachers are new to the profession, with less than a year of experience in the role. These individuals use substitute teaching as a way to explore a career in education before committing to a full-time teaching position.
While not always required, prior experience working with children, strong communication skills, and classroom management abilities can improve job prospects as a substitute teacher.

What does a substitute teacher do?
How to become a substitute teacher for 2025?
How long does it take to become a substitute teacher?
What are the pros and cons of being a substitute teacher?
What are the most important skills for a substitute teacher?
How does a substitute teacher apply for a teaching job?
What are the possible career paths for aspiring substitute teachers?
How Can Substitute Teachers Advance Their Careers?
What are effective continuing education options for substitute teachers?
How can advanced leadership training benefit substitute teachers?
What challenges do substitute teachers commonly face, and how can they overcome them?
Can further education enhance your substitute teaching career?
How can substitute teaching experience open doors to alternative educational careers?
What is the job outlook for substitute teachers?
What is the average salary of substitute teachers?
What are ideal resources for new substitute teachers?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher

What does a substitute teacher do?

A substitute teacher plays a vital role in maintaining educational continuity when the regular teacher is absent. Their primary responsibilities include implementing lesson plans, managing classroom behavior, and ensuring students remain engaged in their learning.

Substitute teachers are tasked with taking attendance, facilitating lessons based on the provided curriculum, and creating a positive learning environment. They also grade assignments, maintain discipline, and communicate any relevant information to the regular teacher upon their return. For those considering this profession, understanding the steps to become a certified teacher is essential.

Overall, substitute teachers help ensure that students continue to progress academically while providing necessary support in the classroom.

Let us delve into their key responsibilities:

Implementing Lesson Plans: Substitute teachers review and deliver lessons based on the regular teacher's plans, or create their own if necessary. This may involve lecturing, leading discussions, or conducting activities.

Classroom Management: They maintain order, enforce rules, and create a conducive learning environment by setting clear expectations and addressing issues promptly. This includes managing student behavior and maintaining discipline in the classroom.
Ensuring a Positive and Safe Learning Environment: Creating an optimistic, helpful, and caring atmosphere is crucial. They are responsible for student safety both in the classroom and during breaks, being aware of any special needs or health issues.
Attendance and Recordkeeping: Accurate records must be maintained, including attendance, grades, and notes for the regular teacher, documenting what lessons were taught and any issues that arose.
Assigning Homework: Substitute teachers assign homework to students. The teacher may leave specific assignments; otherwise, the substitute may need to create assignments that align with the teacher’s instructional plan or established curriculum.
Communication: Effective communication is essential for substitute teachers. This includes interacting clearly with students, staff, and occasionally parents, addressing questions, and discussing student progress. They also provide detailed reports for the returning teacher, covering attendance, lesson progress, disciplinary actions, and positive student developments.
Adhering to School Policies: Substitute teachers are expected to observe and follow school policies, act professionally, dress appropriately, be punctual, and follow school rules. They should also be familiar with school emergency protocols.

How to become a substitute teacher for 2025?

Becoming a substitute teacher involves meeting specific qualifications, obtaining necessary certifications, and applying for positions in local school districts. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Meet Educational Requirements: The minimum requirement to become a substitute teacher varies by state. Some, like Colorado, Missouri, and Texas, allow candidates with only a high school diploma or GED to qualify. Other states, such as California, New York, and Illinois, require an education degree. Certain districts offer emergency permits or alternative pathways.

Pass a Background Check: All candidates must pass the criminal background check and fingerprinting to ensure student safety.

Obtain Certification or a Substitute Permit: Some states require a substitute teaching license or permit. Getting one may involve completing training or passing an exam. In areas with teacher shortages, emergency permits allow individuals to teach without full certification.

Complete Training: Depending on the location, aspiring substitute teachers may be required to complete specific training programs to ensure they are well-prepared for classroom responsibilities. For instance, Florida mandates that individuals without prior classroom teaching experience undergo training in instructional strategies and classroom management.

Apply to Schools or Staffing Agencies: To start working, prospective substitute teachers must submit applications to local school districts or substitute staffing agencies. Some institutions require an interview or orientation before assigning placements. Upon approval, substitutes can start filling in for teachers across various assignments.

How long does it take to become a substitute teacher?

The time required to become a substitute teacher for 2025 depends on state requirements and the application process. In states with minimal requirements, candidates with a high school diploma can complete a background check and submit an application within a few days to a couple of weeks.

If certifications or trainings are required, it can take several weeks to a few months to complete state-approved courses or pass an exam.

What are the pros and cons of being a substitute teacher?

Becoming a substitute teacher offers a unique opportunity to work in education without the long-term commitment of a full-time teaching position. It can be a flexible and rewarding job, but it also comes with its own set of challenges.

Pros:

Variety of Work Environments: Substitutes gain experience in different schools, grade levels, and subjects, helping them build diverse teaching skills.
No Extensive Certification Required in Some States: Many states allow substitutes with only a high school diploma or associate degree, reducing barriers to entry.

Opportunities for Full-Time Positions: Schools often hire long-term or high-performing substitutes for permanent teaching roles. Having an online master's in education can further enhance job prospects and career advancement.

Cons:

Classroom Challenges: Managing unfamiliar students and lesson plans can be difficult, especially without proper training.

Lower Pay Compared to Full-Time Teachers: The average hourly rate for a substitute teacher is $20, significantly lower than that of certified educators.

Limited or No Benefits: Most substitutes do not receive health insurance, paid time off, or retirement benefits.

What are the most important skills for a substitute teacher?

Substitute teaching demands a diverse set of skills to effectively manage classrooms and support student learning. Here are the key competencies essential for this role:

Classroom Management

Studies have shown that teachers allocate approximately 40% of their classroom time to managing student behavior and organizing activities. For substitutes, maintaining order and keeping students engaged is even more challenging in unfamiliar settings, making strong discipline strategies essential. Pursuing an online master's in early childhood education can help educators develop effective classroom management techniques to navigate these challenges successfully.

Communication Skills

Successful instruction comprises approximately 50% subject knowledge and 50% communication skills. For substitute teachers, the ability to clearly convey lesson plans, actively listen to students, and engage with school staff is essential for maintaining continuity and fostering a positive learning environment.

Time Management and Organization

A national survey found that teachers work a median of 54 hours per week, but only 46% of their time in the school building is spent on actual teaching. The rest is dedicated to planning, grading, and other administrative tasks. For substitute teachers, strong organizational skills are essential to efficiently manage lesson plans, classroom responsibilities, and unpredictable schedules.

How does a substitute teacher apply for a teaching job?

Substitute teachers can start applying for careers in education by following these steps:

Find Job Openings – Substitute teachers can look for teaching positions on school district websites, state education portals, and job boards. Some districts partner with staffing agencies such as Kelly Education or ESS to manage substitute hiring.

Submit an Application – Apply for positions by submitting educational transcripts, references, and proof of certification, as necessary. Some applications may also include a background check form and availability preferences.

Complete Interviews or Orientation – School districts may conduct interviews, orientation sessions, or training programs before approving applicants. These sessions help familiarize substitutes with classroom expectations, school policies, and scheduling systems.

Join the Substitute Teachers' Pool – Once approved, substitutes are added to the district’s call list or online scheduling system, where they can accept

What are the possible career paths for aspiring substitute teachers?

Aspiring substitute teachers have several potential career paths in the education sector. With a projected 3% job growth by 2033 and 58,900 annual openings, substitute teaching offers a strong foundation for advancing into various roles.

Below are some potential career paths:

Full-Time Teacher: Transitioning from a substitute to a full-time teaching position is common. The chances of getting full-time positions are higher for those who meet state certification requirements and have demonstrated effective teaching skills during their substitute assignments.

Special Education Teacher: Public schools employed around 541,000 special education teachers across elementary and secondary levels. However, despite this number, approximately 70% of schools report vacancies in special education teaching positions, highlighting a persistent shortage. Substitutes with relevant experience and specialized certifications may find increased opportunities in this high-demand field. Earning the cheapest online special education master’s degree can be a cost-effective way to gain advanced skills and improve job prospects in this area.

Instructional Coach or Curriculum Developer: The demand for instructional coaches and curriculum developers is rising in 2025, with 59% of public schools reporting at least one instructional coach. Substitute teachers who pursue further education and demonstrate leadership in curriculum development can increase their chances of moving into these positions.

Education Consultant: The education consulting industry in the US comprises approximately 44,376 businesses as of 2024. The growing demand creates opportunities for experienced educators to provide advisory services. Success in this field often depends on a strong professional network and a track record of effective educational strategies. Aspiring consultants can strengthen their qualifications through the cheapest online educational leadership programs, which provide essential skills in school management and instructional strategy.

How Can Substitute Teachers Advance Their Careers?

Substitute teaching can serve as a strategic entry point for educators aiming to transition into permanent classroom roles or leadership positions. By building a robust teaching portfolio and accumulating hands-on classroom experience, substitutes can position themselves for advanced opportunities. Pursuing targeted professional development, obtaining specialized certifications, and enrolling in leadership programs are key strategies for career progression. Educators might also consider expanding their academic credentials through doctoral studies; for example, you can explore 2 year Ed.D programs online to gain a competitive edge. Networking with experienced educators and engaging in mentorship initiatives can further facilitate the transition into full-time or administrative roles.

What are effective continuing education options for substitute teachers?

Substitute teachers seeking to enhance classroom effectiveness should explore ongoing professional development opportunities tailored to evolving educational practices. Enrolling in workshops, webinars, and targeted short courses can provide fresh insights into digital instruction and diverse classroom management techniques. For deeper academic advancement, many professionals turn to accredited online teaching degree programs that combine practical education strategies with modern technological integration. This commitment to continuous learning not only sharpens instructional skills but also streamlines the transition towards long-term or full-time teaching roles.

How can advanced leadership training benefit substitute teachers?

Advanced leadership training provides substitute teachers with critical skills in decision-making, team coordination, and conflict resolution, which can streamline classroom management and overall educational program support. Pursuing an online doctorate in leadership and management enables professionals to gain strategic insights tailored for dynamic educational environments, fostering higher credibility and expanding career advancement possibilities.

What challenges do substitute teachers commonly face, and how can they overcome them?

Substitute teachers often encounter abrupt classroom transitions, limited preparation time, and varying curriculum expectations across schools. These challenges can lead to difficulties in quickly adapting lesson plans and establishing effective classroom management strategies. To address these issues, educators are encouraged to build a concise repertoire of adaptable activities and to familiarize themselves with multiple disciplinary approaches. Professional development, including targeted short courses on innovative teaching techniques and classroom technology usage, can help mitigate these challenges. For those looking to broaden their academic credentials and build confidence in instructional planning, pursuing the cheapest online master's in English may offer strategic insights and advanced communication skills that support effective teaching in dynamic classroom settings.

Can further education enhance your substitute teaching career?

Advanced education can provide substitute teachers with comprehensive insights into instructional methodologies and leadership strategies that enhance classroom management and overall career progression. Earning an advanced degree not only enriches your theoretical foundation but also equips you with research-backed approaches to address diverse learning environments efficiently. In addition, further academic qualifications can open pathways toward permanent teaching positions and administrative roles, fostering long-term career stability and growth. For those exploring cost-effective options to advance their credentials, consider taking the best affordable EdD programs online.

How can substitute teaching experience open doors to alternative educational careers?

Substitute teaching hones versatile skills in adaptability, communication, and quick decision-making that are valuable in many educational roles beyond the classroom. These competencies can serve as a springboard into alternative fields such as school administration, curriculum development, and specialized areas like library science jobs. Leveraging real-world classroom challenges can enhance your profile for positions that demand innovative problem-solving and effective stakeholder engagement, ultimately broadening your career trajectory.

What is the job outlook for substitute teachers?

The job outlook for substitute teachers in 2025 remains strong, driven by ongoing teacher shortages and the need for temporary educators in schools. Substitute teachers can find employment across various industries. The majority (376,340) work in elementary and secondary schools, where teacher shortages are most pronounced. This sector offers an average annual wage of $44,650, making it the primary employer for substitute teachers.

For those interested in entering the profession quickly, it's useful to understand how fast can you become a teacher to plan accordingly.

Other industries also provide employment opportunities. Employment services hire around 41,800, helping various school districts fill temporary teaching positions. Child care services employ 8,570 substitutes, with a salary of around $33,820 annually. Educational support services and local government agencies also provide temporary substitute teaching positions. These sectors highlight the strong employment outlook for substitute teachers in 2025.

What is the average salary of substitute teachers?

Short-term substitute teachers earn a mean annual wage of $44,650, with an hourly wage of $21.46 in elementary and secondary schools. Those hired through employment services make $36,870 per year ($17.72 per hour), while substitutes in child care services earn $33,820 annually ($16.26 per hour). Pay may also vary by experience, location, and school district policies.

For those considering advanced qualifications, understanding the average salary for teachers with a master’s degree can help you evaluate potential earnings growth over time.

What are the ideal resources for new substitute teachers?

New substitute teachers can benefit from a variety of resources to help them succeed in the classroom. These include the following:

STEDI.org (Substitute Teaching Division) – Provides professional development courses designed to enhance substitute teaching effectiveness. It covers classroom management, student engagement, and instructional strategies.

The Master Teacher – Offers a series of 25 flexible, self-paced online courses, each designed to be completed in 45 minutes or less. Courses encompass lessons on handling classroom behavior and effective teaching methods.

National Education Association (NEA) – Provides advocacy, teaching resources, and networking opportunities for substitute teachers. Many substitute teachers also join NEA for professional support and career development.

ShareMyLesson – This is an online platform where educators share lesson plans, activities, and teaching materials. Here, substitutes can quickly find resources tailored to various subjects and grade levels.

Understanding the different types of teaching certificates can also help new substitutes align their career goals with long-term certification paths.

Here's What Substitute Teachers Say About Their Jobs

"As a substitute teacher, I love having the freedom to choose my schedule while still making a meaningful impact in the classroom. Every day brings a new challenge, whether I’m working with elementary students or covering a high school math class. The flexibility allows me to balance work and personal life in a way that a full-time teaching job never could." – Jessica

"Substituting has been an incredible way to gain hands-on teaching experience while working toward my certification. I’ve learned to adapt quickly, manage different classroom environments, and build strong relationships with students. It’s the perfect stepping stone for anyone considering a full-time teaching career." – Daniel

"Substitute teaching has given me the flexibility I need while allowing me to stay connected to education. I love the variety of working with different age groups and schools, and the feeling of contributing to my community is incredibly rewarding." – Maria

Key Findings

To become a substitute teacher in most U.S. states, candidates typically need at least a high school diploma or a bachelor's degree, depending on the district's requirements.
Many states require substitute teachers to pass background checks, including fingerprinting, before they can work in schools.
Substitute teachers must often complete specific training or orientations, especially in larger school districts, to familiarize themselves with policies and procedures.
Compensation for substitute teachers varies widely across districts, with pay rates influenced by location, school level, and experience.
Some states and districts offer long-term substitute positions that may require additional qualifications, such as a teaching credential or subject-specific expertise.

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher

What are the main responsibilities of a substitute teacher?

A substitute teacher's main responsibilities are following lesson plans left by the regular teacher, managing classroom behavior, ensuring student safety, and maintaining a productive learning environment. They may also take attendance, administer tests, and provide instructional support.

How to be prepared as a substitute teacher?

To prepare for a role of a substitute teacher, review lesson plans in advance, familiarize yourself with school policies, and arrive early to set up. Keeping a backup activity or lesson plan can also help in case of missing instructions. Additionally, understanding basic educational technology and communication tools can improve efficiency in different classroom settings.

Does substitute teaching look good on a resume?

Yes, substitute teaching looks good on a resume because it demonstrates adaptability, classroom management skills, and experience in an educational setting. It can also serve as a stepping stone to full-time teaching or other education-related careers.

Are there opportunities for salary advancement in substitute teaching?

Yes, substitute teachers can increase their earnings through long-term assignments, specialized certifications, and working in higher-paying districts. Long-term substitutes often earn more, with some making up to $200 per day, depending on location. Additionally, substitutes with certifications in special education or high-demand subjects may qualify for higher pay.

References:

Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, May). Occupational employment and wage statistics: Substitute teachers (25-3031). U.S. Department of Labor. https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes253031.htm

High Speed Training. (n.d.). Essential communication skills for teachers. https://www.highspeedtraining.co.uk/hub/communication-skills-for-teachers/

K12 Digest. (2023, February 8). A continuing international crisis: Teacher shortages. https://www.k12digest.com/a-continuing-international-crisis-teacher-shortages/

Klein, A. (2024, March 18). Special education teacher shortage requires federal action, panel says. K-12 Dive. https://www.k12dive.com/news/special-education-teacher-shortage-panel-commission-civil-rights/733153/

O*NET Online. (n.d.). Local employment trends for substitute teachers (25-3031.00). U.S. Department of Labor. https://www.onetonline.org/link/localtrends/25-3031.00