How to Become a Substitute Teacher in Missouri for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Substitute teaching in Missouri is a rewarding and flexible role that supports schools by filling in when full-time teachers are unavailable. Substitutes play a key part in maintaining classroom continuity and student learning across grade levels and subjects. With teacher shortages in some areas, demand for qualified substitutes remains strong.

The role offers flexible scheduling, daily pay, and the opportunity to gain valuable classroom experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the certification paths, the responsibilities and expectations of the role, and steps to apply and get started.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Missouri

Obtain at least a bachelor’s degree; many districts require this minimum for substitute teaching eligibility.
Complete a background check and fingerprinting through the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).
Apply directly to individual school districts, as requirements and pay rates vary across Missouri regions.
Consider completing a substitute teacher training program to enhance skills and increase job opportunities.
Expect average daily pay ranging from $110 to $193, depending on district and experience.

What are the basic requirements to become a substitute teacher in Missouri?
What training is required for first-time substitute teachers in Missouri?
How do you apply to become a substitute teacher in Missouri?
How much do substitute teachers in Missouri make?
How do you renew or maintain a substitute teaching certificate in Missouri?
What are the responsibilities of a substitute teacher in Missouri?
How flexible is a substitute teacher’s schedule in Missouri?
What are the benefits received by a substitute teacher in Missouri?
What legal rights do substitute teachers have in Missouri?
What are the career advancement opportunities for substitute teachers in Missouri?
What are the certification and licensure steps for substitute teachers in Missouri?
Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Missouri

What are the basic requirements to become a substitute teacher in Missouri?

To qualify as a substitute teacher in Missouri, candidates must meet several foundational requirements that ensure readiness and professionalism. These criteria help maintain quality education across the state’s diverse districts.

Age and Employment Eligibility: Applicants must be at least 18 years old and legally eligible to work in the United States.
Educational Background: For most substitute positions, a minimum of 36 semester hours of college credit from a regionally accredited institution is required, reflecting recent updates in Missouri substitute teacher requirements.
Background Check: Passing a fingerprint-based criminal background check is mandatory to ensure student safety.
Transcripts and Documentation: Official college transcripts must be submitted to verify educational attainment during the substitute teacher certification process Missouri mandates.

For those building experience or exploring alternative career paths, understanding these basic qualifications is essential. Missouri offers pathways that can lead to various opportunities including jobs with education degree beyond traditional classroom roles.

What training is required for first-time substitute teachers in Missouri?

To successfully become a substitute teacher in Missouri, you must complete specific training designed to prepare you for the classroom environment. These requirements ensure you are ready to manage students and maintain a productive learning space.

20-hour DESE-approved training: You must complete a 20-hour substitute teacher training program approved by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), which covers essential skills like classroom management and professional ethics.
Authorized providers: Training must be taken through DESE-approved organizations, including Frontline Education, Kelly Education, and various Missouri colleges and universities, ensuring consistent quality across programs.
Certificate of completion: After finishing the course, you will receive a certificate or transcript verifying your training, which must be submitted when applying for your substitute teaching certificate.
Additional employer requirements: Some employers, such as Kelly Education, may require extra pre-hire training and orientation beyond the DESE-approved coursework.
Documentation submission: Proper documentation of completed training is necessary for your application, highlighting the importance of meeting all Missouri substitute teacher education requirements.

For those considering further education, exploring the rankings of the best online teaching degree programs can be a valuable next step in advancing your teaching career. The chart below highlights the most common skills substitute teachers emphasize on their resumes, offering insight into areas where additional training may boost your qualifications.

How do you apply to become a substitute teacher in Missouri?

Becoming a substitute teacher in Missouri involves a clear, step-by-step process designed to ensure candidates are well-prepared and properly vetted. Taking each stage seriously will help you navigate the system smoothly and position yourself for success in this rewarding role.

Complete the Online Application: Start by submitting an application through the school district’s website or portal, providing your personal information and work history for initial screening.
Apply for a Substitute Certificate: If you don’t already hold a Missouri teaching certificate, apply for a Substitute Certificate via the DESE online portal and pay the $50 processing fee.
District Review and Interview: After your application is reviewed, you’ll be invited for an interview and possibly an orientation session, scheduled at various times during the school year.
Background Checks and Fingerprinting: Complete thorough background checks including FBI fingerprinting, using the specific district code provided to ensure correct processing.
Fulfill Additional District Requirements: Some districts require extra steps such as in-person training sessions, Family Care Safety Registry registration, or completion of online safety modules.
Final Approval and Onboarding: Once cleared, you’ll gain access to the district’s substitute management system, allowing you to accept teaching assignments.

Reflecting on the application process, a substitute teacher from Missouri who graduated locally shared that the initial online application was straightforward but required patience during the waiting period. She explained, “The fingerprinting step was a bit nerve-wracking because you need to do it quickly and follow the district’s instructions exactly.”

She also noted the importance of staying proactive: “I found that regularly checking the DESE portal and promptly responding to interview invitations made all the difference.” Her journey highlighted how persistence and attention to detail can turn what seems like a complex process into a manageable and rewarding experience.

How much do substitute teachers in Missouri make?

The average substitute teacher salary in Missouri is approximately $39,411 annually, which breaks down to about $19.29 per hour. However, this figure only tells part of the story. Salaries can vary widely depending on experience, certification, and district resources. At the lower end, some substitutes earn around $27,500 per year, while the top 10% can make up to $56,695 annually, showing a significant range that reflects diverse working conditions across the state.

Daily rates also differ, especially between districts. For example, in the Wentzville School District, substitutes with a standard certificate earn between $115 and $135 per day, while those with full teacher certification can earn from $120 to $140. Long-term substitutes receive even higher pay, up to $150 per day. When thinking about how much do substitute teachers make in Missouri, these variations highlight the importance of certification and the potential benefits of pursuing advanced credentials.

The median salary of around $39,411 suggests that substitute teaching in Missouri is often more of a stepping stone or supplementary role rather than a full career for many. This median reflects a state where substitute teaching may attract retirees, early-career educators, or those seeking flexible work rather than competitive, full-time compensation.

Compared nationally, Missouri ranks last among all states for substitute teacher salaries, placing it at 50th. This means the pay is generally lower than the national range of $20 to $30 per hour, which may influence your decision if financial factors are a priority. For those looking to advance, considering further education through cheapest online EdD programs could open doors to better-paying opportunities in education leadership or full-time teaching roles.

The image below shows how many substitute teachers work fewer than 10 days in a school year, offering perspective on how part-time or sporadic this role can be for many individuals.

substitute teachers who work 10 days or less

How do you renew or maintain a substitute teaching certificate in Missouri?

Renewing your substitute teaching certificate in Missouri is a streamlined process designed to keep you ready and eligible to support classrooms across the state. Staying proactive about renewal ensures uninterrupted opportunities to substitute teach.

Certificate Validity: Your substitute teaching certificate lasts for four years, so mark your calendar ahead to avoid lapses.
Renewal Application: Submit your renewal through the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) online portal, making the process accessible and efficient.
Renewal Fee: A $50 processing fee applies each time you renew, which covers administrative costs.
Transcript Submission: If you haven’t earned additional college credits since your last application, there’s no need to resubmit transcripts.
Background Check: You must complete a new Missouri criminal background check if you have not been employed as a substitute during the current school year.
Professional Development: No state-mandated professional development hours are required for renewal, though some districts may offer optional training.
Eligibility Paths: Renewal is open if you initially qualified with 36+ college credit hours, completed the 20-hour online substitute training, or hold relevant credentials or experience.
Special Considerations: Retired teachers can currently substitute without hour limits until July 2025, and visiting scholars may qualify for renewable one-year certificates through special programs.

What are the responsibilities of a substitute teacher in Missouri?

Substitute teachers in Missouri play a vital role in maintaining smooth instructional flow and effective classroom management when the regular teacher is unavailable. Their responsibilities require adaptability, professionalism, and a commitment to supporting student success.

Deliver pre-planned lessons: Follow the lesson plans and instructional materials left by the regular teacher to keep students academically on track.
Maintain classroom order: Enforce school behavior policies to ensure a safe, respectful, and productive learning environment.
Take attendance: Accurately record student attendance and report absences according to district procedures.
Communicate with staff: Report significant incidents or student concerns to school administration or the regular teacher promptly.
Adapt to different grade levels and subjects: Be prepared to teach various subjects and age groups, often on short notice.
Supervise students during non-instructional times: Monitor students in hallways, lunchrooms, recess, and dismissal as directed.
Follow district and state policies: Adhere strictly to local school rules and Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education regulations.
Complete required training: Fulfill Missouri’s 20-hour DESE-approved substitute teacher training if college credit requirements are not met.
Fingerprinting and background checks: Undergo mandated fingerprinting and criminal background checks to ensure student safety and compliance.
Obtain and maintain certification: Hold a valid Missouri substitute certificate, teaching certificate, or Career Technical Substitute certificate as applicable.
Flexibility and availability: Be ready to serve multiple days a week, especially on high-need days, to support district staffing needs.

How flexible is a substitute teacher’s schedule in Missouri?

Substitute teaching in Missouri offers a remarkable level of schedule flexibility that few other jobs can match. You decide when and where you work, choosing assignments that fit your personal life and interests. Whether you prefer a few days a month or a full week each week, you can tailor your workload without pressure to commit to a minimum number of days.

Many districts empower substitutes to set preferences by grade level, subject, or school, letting you control your professional experience. This flexibility is a powerful advantage if you juggle other jobs, family, or continuing education. Even roles with more consistency, like building substitutes, provide a balance between routine and choice.

I spoke with a substitute teacher from Missouri, a proud graduate of a local school district, who shared how this flexibility shaped his journey. He recalled the early days when coordinating assignments around his family was challenging but rewarding. “I could say no to days when I needed to focus on my kids or personal projects,” he said.

Over time, he learned to navigate district systems smoothly, understanding that the freedom to pick assignments meant embracing unpredictability too. Yet, he found this balance empowering, allowing him to stay connected to education while managing life’s demands on his terms.

What are the benefits received by a substitute teacher in Missouri?

Substitute teachers in Missouri enjoy a variety of benefits that make this role both flexible and rewarding. Whether you are a retired educator or new to teaching, these advantages support your career and income goals.

Retirement and Pension Security: Retired teachers can work without limits on hours or salary through 2030, allowing them to supplement their pension without penalty.
Flexible Certification Pathways: You can become a substitute teacher by completing 36 college semester hours or a 20-hour DESE-approved online training program, making the profession accessible to many.
Professional Growth: Opportunities like externships encourage skill development and can count towards salary advancement.
Job Flexibility and Demand: Substitute teaching offers adaptable schedules and steady demand, ideal for retirees or those seeking part-time work. As shown in the chart below, understanding what motivates substitutes to accept specific assignments can provide deeper insight into how they balance availability with personal preferences and professional goals.

If you’re considering advancing your education, exploring options such as the cheapest online master's in education administration can complement your substitute teaching career and open new doors. Missouri’s substitute teacher retirement benefits and evolving certification routes create a strong foundation for success in this vital educational role.

What legal rights do substitute teachers have in Missouri?

Substitute teachers in Missouri benefit from important legal protections and opportunities designed to support their professional growth and financial security. These rights reflect recent legislative efforts to make substitute teaching more accessible and rewarding.

Pension Protection for Retirees: Retired teachers can work as substitute teachers without risking their PSRS/PEERS retirement benefits through June 30, 2030, allowing them to contribute without financial penalty.
Flexible Certification Requirements: Missouri lowered the college credit requirement from 60 to 36 hours and introduced a 20-hour online training option, making certification more attainable for a broader range of candidates.
Valid Certification Required: Substitute teachers must hold a current substitute certificate unless they already have an active Missouri teaching certificate; expired certificates require renewal or substitution certification to maintain eligibility.
Recognition of Online Training: The state accepts a department-approved 20-hour online course as a valid path for substitute certification, reflecting Missouri’s embrace of digital education solutions.
Work in Diverse Settings: Substitutes can work in K-12 schools and community colleges, either directly through school districts or via third-party providers, expanding employment options.

What are the career advancement opportunities for substitute teachers in Missouri?

Career advancement for substitute teachers in Missouri offers several promising pathways, allowing you to grow professionally while gaining valuable classroom experience. Exploring these options can help you build a rewarding teaching career tailored to your goals.

Becoming a fully certified teacher: By completing additional coursework and obtaining a standard teaching certificate, you can transition from substitute roles to full-time teaching positions with greater responsibilities and benefits.
Specialized certification: Pursuing endorsements in areas like special education or English as a Second Language can open doors to niche teaching opportunities and higher demand roles.
Educational leadership: Experience gained as a substitute can lead to roles in administration or curriculum development, especially if you pursue further qualifications.
Continuing professional development: Many districts encourage substitutes to attend training and orientation sessions, helping you stay updated and competitive. This include training in trauma-informed teaching strategies, as shown in the image below.

By understanding the teaching certification pathways in Missouri and leveraging your substitute experience, you can strategically plan your next steps. If you are wondering about foundational qualifications, consider exploring what are the easiest teaching degrees to complement your journey.

half of substitute teachers want training in trauma teaching

What do substitute teachers in Missouri say about their careers?

Completing the substitute teacher training at Central Missouri High gave me a solid foundation and confidence to step into classrooms across the state. Starting my teaching journey as a substitute in various local schools allowed me to explore different grade levels and subjects, which was invaluable for my professional growth. I appreciate how Missouri’s education system supports substitutes with ongoing professional development and a sense of job stability. Being able to contribute positively to students’ daily learning experiences keeps me passionate about this career path. - Patrick
My time finishing the substitute certification program at St. Louis Learning Academy was truly transformative. Working as a substitute teacher in local schools has given me unique insight into Missouri’s diverse student population and the challenges they face. This role has helped me grow personally, as I’ve become more patient and adaptable while making a meaningful impact on children’s academic and social development. I’m especially proud to support schools in both urban and rural communities, embracing the richness of Missouri's culture and environment. - Jeane
After completing a substitute teaching program at Kansas City Preparatory School, I started my career working as a substitute in local schools, which provided unexpected opportunities to advance professionally. The variety of classrooms and students I encounter has broadened my skills and opened doors for further certification and permanent teaching roles. Missouri’s resources for substitutes, including workshops and mentoring, have been instrumental in my development. I’m motivated every day by the chance to make a positive difference in the lives of young learners statewide. - Laquiesha

Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Missouri

Are online substitute teacher training programs in Missouri legitimate?

When considering online substitute teacher training programs in Missouri, legitimacy and recognition by school districts are crucial factors. One of the most reputable options is the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) approved online courses offered by providers such as Teach Missouri.

These programs align with state requirements and are widely accepted by school districts across Missouri, ensuring that substitutes receive proper preparation tailored to local educational standards.

On a broader scale, Substitute Teacher Training by A+ Educational Solutions is a popular national program known for its comprehensive curriculum and ease of access. While not Missouri-specific, it covers essential classroom management skills and legal responsibilities, making it a valuable resource for prospective substitutes.

Overall, candidates should prioritize Missouri DESE-approved programs for state compliance but may complement their training with nationally recognized options to enhance their readiness and confidence in the classroom.

Is substitute teaching in Missouri considered full-time employment?

In Missouri, substitute teaching is generally not classified as full-time employment. Most substitute teachers work on an as-needed basis, filling in for absent teachers, which results in variable hours and inconsistent schedules.

According to the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), substitute teachers are typically hired per diem, meaning they receive daily pay rates without guaranteed ongoing work. This arrangement lacks the stability, benefits, and contractual obligations associated with full-time teaching positions.

Data from the Missouri State Teachers Association (MSTA) indicates that substitute teachers often work fewer than 30 hours per week, well below the threshold commonly recognized for full-time status. Additionally, substitute teachers usually do not receive health insurance, retirement benefits, or paid leave, which are standard for full-time employees.

While some districts may offer long-term substitute assignments that approach full-time hours, these are exceptions rather than the norm. Therefore, substitute teaching in Missouri is primarily considered part-time or temporary work rather than full-time employment.

What skills do you gain as a substitute teacher in Missouri?

As a substitute teacher in Missouri, you gain a diverse set of skills that enhance your educational and professional capabilities. You develop strong classroom management skills by maintaining order and engaging students in various learning environments. Adaptability is crucial, as you often work with different age groups and subject matters on short notice.

Communication skills improve through daily interaction with students, teachers, and school staff. You also learn to quickly implement lesson plans and modify teaching methods to meet students’ needs. Problem-solving becomes a routine part of your role when unexpected challenges arise.

Furthermore, you build organizational skills by managing classroom materials and tracking student progress. Time management is essential to balance multiple assignments and responsibilities efficiently. These skills collectively prepare you for a permanent teaching position or other roles in education.

Should you substitute teach before becoming a full-time teacher in Missouri?

Yes, substituting before becoming a full-time teacher in Missouri is often beneficial. It provides valuable classroom experience and helps build practical skills. Substitute teaching allows individuals to understand diverse student needs and classroom management challenges firsthand.

This experience can strengthen a resume and improve job prospects in education. It also offers networking opportunities with school administrators and full-time teachers. Many districts prefer candidates who have proven classroom effectiveness through substitute teaching.

Additionally, substituting helps clarify career goals by exposing candidates to different grade levels and subjects. It can also ease the transition into a full-time teaching role by familiarizing candidates with school policies and routines.

However, substitute teaching should not be viewed as the only route to full-time teaching. Missouri requires proper certification and education credentials for full-time teachers. Substituting is a complementary step that enhances preparation but does not replace formal teacher licensure requirements.