How to Become a Substitute Teacher in Tennessee for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Finding flexible work in Tennessee’s education sector has become increasingly important and increasingly possible. With over 700 school districts facing ongoing substitute teacher shortages, opportunities are more accessible than ever. Substitute teaching provides a unique blend of flexibility, meaningful classroom engagement, and competitive daily pay, making it an ideal option for career changers, retirees, college students, and aspiring educators alike.

In this article, you’ll find a clear breakdown of how to become a substitute teacher in Tennessee in 2025. From certification requirements and application steps to practical tips for success, this guide will help you confidently take the first step toward a rewarding role in education.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Tennessee

Aspiring substitute teachers in Tennessee must hold at least a bachelor’s degree or a valid teaching license to qualify.
Candidates must complete the state’s mandatory substitute teacher training program, which covers classroom management and legal responsibilities.
Expect an average daily pay ranging from $75 to $120, depending on experience and district.

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

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

Exploring the path to becoming a substitute teacher in Tennessee reveals a mix of state-level standards and local district preferences. Here are the essential qualifications you'll encounter on this adventurous journey into education.

Education: At minimum, a high school diploma or GED is required, but many districts prefer candidates with 60+ college credits or a bachelor’s degree in any field.
Minimum Age: Candidates must be at least 18 years old to qualify for substitute teaching roles.
Background Check and Fingerprinting: A fingerprint-based background check through the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) is mandatory, with applicants responsible for the processing fee and a wait time of up to four weeks.
Proof of Eligibility: All candidates must provide documentation proving their legal right to work in the U.S.
Supporting Documents: Official transcripts are typically required, and some districts may ask for letters of recommendation to strengthen your application.

Because requirements can vary widely, it’s wise to check each district’s expectations carefully. For those curious about advancing their qualifications, exploring the best online bachelors in education can offer a valuable edge in this competitive field.

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

Exploring the path to becoming a substitute teacher in Tennessee reveals a patchwork of local requirements, each designed to prepare educators for dynamic classroom environments. The training requirements reflect a blend of essential skills and safety protocols that vary by district but share common themes.

Key elements of the substitute teacher orientation program include:

Mandatory Orientation or Training Sessions: Many districts require attendance at scheduled training classes focused on classroom readiness, such as those in Hamblen County where sessions run from morning to noon as a prerequisite.
Pre-Hire Training Programs: Agencies like Kelly Education mandate completion of pre-hire training and orientation, covering important topics like classroom management and emergency procedures before placement.
Background and Safety Training: All substitute teachers must pass a criminal history background check including fingerprinting, ensuring safety and compliance statewide.
Skills Assessments: Some districts add a skills test to evaluate classroom aptitude, though this is not uniformly required across Tennessee.

The training content typically emphasizes classroom management, school policies, emergency protocols, and effective communication. For those curious about advancing further in education, exploring the best online doctorate in higher education programs can be a valuable next step on this educational journey.

substitute teacher ongoing professional development

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

Applying to become a substitute teacher in Tennessee is a step-by-step adventure through district-specific procedures that require attention to detail and patience. Each stage unfolds a new part of the journey, preparing you to support classrooms across the state.

Choose Your District(s): Begin by exploring which school districts you want to serve, as each handles applications differently and may have unique portals or centralized listings.
Submit Your Application: Complete the district’s official application, usually online, providing necessary personal identification and following their specific instructions carefully.
Send Official Transcripts: Request and submit official academic transcripts directly from your previous schools, confirming whether digital or paper copies are preferred.
Complete Background Check and Fingerprinting: Schedule your fingerprinting at an authorized center; results are sent to the Department of Education, ensuring a safe environment for students.
Attend Orientation: Once approved, join a mandatory orientation that introduces district policies and prepares you for your substitute teaching role.
Get Placed and Start Scheduling: After orientation, you’re added to the substitute roster, ready to accept assignments through calls or online systems.

When I spoke with a substitute teacher from Tennessee who graduated locally, she shared how navigating the varied processes initially felt like decoding a puzzle. “Each district had its quirks—some wanted transcripts emailed, others mailed,” she recalled. The fingerprinting appointment was nerve-wracking but vital, and waiting for orientation invitations tested her patience.

Yet, she found the experience rewarding, saying, “Once I was on the roster, the excitement of stepping into classrooms outweighed all the paperwork.” Her story reflects the blend of challenge and fulfillment in becoming a substitute teacher across Tennessee’s diverse educational landscape.

How much do substitute teachers in Tennessee make?

Substitute teachers in Tennessee typically earn between $28,100 and $45,400 annually, with an average salary around $38,341. Hourly rates hover near $18.43, but the real story lies in the variation across districts and certification status. For example, certified substitutes can command higher pay, while uncertified ones often start lower. This range reflects the diverse opportunities available but also hints at the part-time and variable nature of the work.

Examining the median substitute teacher salary in Tennessee reveals a nuanced insight: many substitutes earn less than the state’s average household income, emphasizing that this role is often a supplemental or flexible income source rather than a full-time career. Yet, for those with a teaching license or willing to work in specialized or high-need schools, the earning potential improves, making the role more rewarding both financially and professionally.

Compared to national figures, Tennessee’s substitute teacher pay falls short, ranking last among all states for interim substitute salaries. This gap suggests challenges in attracting and retaining qualified substitutes. Still, for those curious about education careers or exploring what category does education fall under in college, substitute teaching offers a practical and accessible entry point into the field.

The data shows significant variation in substitute teacher pay across states, with Wisconsin offering nearly $70,000 per year. North Dakota, despite being the lowest on the list, still provides a competitive salary of $52,180. These high-paying states may reflect stronger educational budgets or substitute shortages. Location clearly plays a key role in potential earnings for short-term substitutes.

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

Renewing or maintaining a substitute teaching certificate in Tennessee involves navigating state and district-specific rules with a focus on professional growth and compliance. Here’s a clear path to keep your credentials active and ready for new classroom adventures:

License Types and Validity: Substitute teachers generally operate under Practitioner (3-year validity) or Professional (6-year validity) licenses rather than a separate substitute license.
Professional Development Points (PDPs): Accumulate required PDPs—30 for Practitioner and 60 for Professional licenses—through approved workshops, college courses, or other learning activities to renew your license.
Renewal Submission: Use the TNCompass online portal to submit your renewal or reactivation application before your license expires or during the grace period ending October 1 of the expiration year.
Expired License Reactivation: Reactivate an expired license by providing proof of 60 PDPs earned post-expiration or demonstrating two years of qualifying teaching experience.
Tennessee Literacy Success Act Compliance: Complete any required literacy training mandated by the TLSA, which applies to many endorsements and subject areas.
District-Level Approvals: If you lack a full teaching license, maintain district substitute approval by meeting local education, background check, and training requirements, which may include periodic renewals.

What are the responsibilities of a substitute teacher in Tennessee?

Substitute teachers in Tennessee play a crucial role in keeping classrooms running smoothly when the regular teacher is away. Their responsibilities ensure students continue learning effectively while maintaining order and upholding school standards.

Implement the Regular Teacher’s Lesson Plans: Follow and deliver the lesson plans left by the regular teacher to meet instructional goals and maintain routines.
Take Attendance: Accurately record student attendance to support school safety and record-keeping.
Maintain Classroom Management: Enforce classroom rules, manage behavior, and create a respectful, safe learning environment.
Protect Confidential Information: Uphold student privacy in compliance with state and federal regulations.
Assume Additional Duties as Assigned: Assist with supervision in hallways, lunchrooms, or playgrounds based on school needs.
Submit Required Reports and Documentation: Complete end-of-day reports or feedback for teachers or administration.
Communicate Effectively: Build rapport through clear communication with staff, students, and sometimes parents.
Check In and Out Through the Office: Follow school procedures for signing in and out to ensure accountability.
Leave the Classroom Organized and Clean: Prepare the classroom for a smooth transition upon the regular teacher’s return.
Follow All District Policies and State Laws: Adhere to local policies and comply with Tennessee’s education laws.

These core responsibilities contribute to maintaining learning momentum and school stability—an effort made even more significant when you consider how many days per year substitutes themselves may miss. The image below offers insight into the average number of days substitute teachers are absent during the school year.

how many days does the average teacher miss per year

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

Substitute teaching in Tennessee opens a world of scheduling possibilities that can fit almost any lifestyle. Imagine picking your own days to work, deciding which schools you want to serve, and even choosing assignments that last from a single day to several weeks.

There’s no pressure to commit to a fixed schedule, making it perfect for those balancing family, studies, or other jobs. Some districts even reward you for frequent work, turning your availability into bonus opportunities. This freedom to tailor your work around your life means you’re in control, not a rigid timetable.

When I spoke with a substitute teacher from Tennessee who graduated locally, he shared how this flexibility was a game-changer. “At first, it was a bit daunting to juggle when and where to work,” he reflected. “But soon, I found the rhythm that fit my life. Some weeks I’d pick up just a few days, other times I’d take longer assignments when I wanted steady income. It’s like crafting your own teaching adventure.”

He also noted the ease of switching between schools and grades, which kept his days fresh and engaging. This balance between structure and freedom truly defines substitute teaching in Tennessee.

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

Exploring the benefits of being a substitute teacher in Tennessee reveals a dynamic role with diverse perks that go beyond just a paycheck. Whether certified or not, substitutes can tap into a range of opportunities tailored to their experience and availability.

Competitive Daily Pay: Certified substitutes earn between $130 and $150 per day, while uncertified ones receive $110 to $130, with some districts offering bonuses for special education assignments.
Bonus and Incentive Programs: Weekly bonuses and referral incentives reward consistent work, especially in districts like Bedford County where extra pay is common.
Flexible Scheduling: Substitutes often choose when and where to work, ideal for those seeking part-time or variable hours.
Career Experience: The role offers valuable classroom exposure and pathways toward full-time positions, with some agencies providing financial help for onboarding costs.

For those curious about the broader educational landscape, understanding substitute teacher rights in Tennessee is key to navigating this flexible career. Additionally, if you’re interested in advancing your qualifications, you might explore what are the cheapest online library science masters degrees to complement your teaching journey.

What legal rights do substitute teachers have in Tennessee?

Substitute teachers in Tennessee navigate a unique set of legal rights shaped by state laws and local policies, offering a mix of flexibility and protections. These rights balance the needs of schools with the practical realities of short-term teaching assignments.

Licensing Flexibility: No teaching license is required for substitutes covering a teacher on leave for up to 20 consecutive days, allowing more individuals to fill temporary vacancies.
Retired Teacher Privileges: Retired educators from 2011 to 2016 can substitute without an active license and must receive pay equal to licensed retired substitutes, ensuring fair compensation.
At-Will Employment: Substitute positions are generally at-will, meaning they can be ended without the protections full-time teachers enjoy, though some districts offer additional rights through agreements or policies.
Appeal and Union Support: In districts with collective bargaining or union representation, substitutes may have the option to appeal dismissals or access dispute resolution resources.
Policy Compliance: Substitutes must follow all district rules and take on full teacher duties, but handbooks clarify expectations rather than guarantee job security or contracts.

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

Stepping into substitute teaching in Tennessee opens doors not only to daily classroom adventures but also to meaningful career advancement for substitute teachers in Tennessee. This path offers several routes to grow professionally while gaining valuable experience.

Becoming a Fully Certified Teacher: Many substitutes leverage their experience to earn full Tennessee teaching licensure, unlocking higher pay and long-term positions.
Specialized Roles: Taking on assignments in special education or school nursing can lead to specialized credentials and better compensation.
Long-Term Substitute Positions: Serving in a role for 20+ consecutive days often qualifies substitutes for enhanced pay and additional incentives.
Professional Development Participation: Access to district training and credential reimbursement programs helps substitute teachers build skills and credentials.

For those exploring how to enter education, finding an easy teaching degree can complement substitute teaching experience and accelerate career growth through targeted professional development opportunities for Tennessee substitute teachers.

Most substitute teachers have relatively short tenures, with 25% working for less than one year and 30% staying for one to two years. Only 13% remain in the role for three to four years, while 17% stay for five to seven years. Long-term substitutes—those serving eight years or more—make up just 16% of the workforce. These numbers suggest that substitute teaching is often a temporary or transitional role.

What are the latest updates on substitute teacher licensing requirements in Tennessee?

Substitute teachers must continuously monitor state and district communications to ensure their credentials are current amid evolving standards. Recent regulatory adjustments emphasize a streamlined application process and increased clarity around professional development requirements. Staying updated on these changes is crucial to avoid compliance issues and delays when renewing certifications. For verified and comprehensive guidelines, refer to our article on the Tennessee substitute teacher licensing requirements.

What do substitute teachers in Tennessee say about their careers?

Completing the substitute teacher certification program at Memphis Virtual Academy truly opened doors for me. Starting my teaching journey in a local school gave me invaluable hands-on experience and helped me build meaningful connections with students and staff. I especially appreciate how Tennessee’s diverse cultural landscape enriches classroom discussions and allows me to bring real-world perspectives to my lessons. This role has not only strengthened my teaching skills but also deepened my passion for making a positive impact on young minds. I feel proud contributing to the community’s educational growth every day. - Jenny
After finishing my program at Chattanooga State Community College, I began working as a substitute teacher in a nearby school and quickly realized how rewarding the experience is. The flexibility of substitute teaching gave me the chance to balance further professional development with real classroom challenges. Tennessee’s unique blend of urban and rural schools offers a wide range of opportunities to adapt and grow as an educator. It’s fulfilling to support students’ learning journeys while also gaining insights into different teaching styles and environments. This job truly helped me build a strong foundation for my long-term career in education. - Lionel
My path started at the Knoxville Center for Education, where I completed the substitute teacher preparation program. Working as a substitute in Tennessee has been both a challenge and a joy, especially navigating the distinct cultural traditions and resources of the region. The role has pushed me to become more adaptable and culturally aware, which I believe benefits my students tremendously. I’m motivated by knowing that my presence helps maintain continuity in learning and gives students stability amid changes. It’s a meaningful way to contribute to the well-being of the youth and grow professionally at the same time. - Rene

Other Things to Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Tennessee

Are online substitute teacher training programs in Tennessee legitimate?

Yes, Tennessee recognizes several legitimate online substitute teacher training programs. The American Board (ABCTE) offers a state-aligned certification program with a strong reputation. ProTeacher is another accepted option, known for its flexible and practical curriculum. Both programs meet state requirements and prepare candidates well for classroom roles.

Is substitute teaching in Tennessee considered full-time employment?

Substitute teaching in Tennessee is typically considered part-time or temporary work. Most substitutes work on an as-needed basis without consistent hours or benefits. Daily rates range from $100 to $120, depending on the district. Only a few long-term roles offer stability, but they are not the norm.

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

Substitute teachers in Tennessee develop strong classroom management, communication, and time management skills. They also learn to adapt quickly to different grade levels and student needs. Problem-solving and professionalism improve through handling unpredictable classroom situations. These skills are valuable for careers in education or related fields.

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

Yes, substitute teaching is a practical step before pursuing full-time teaching in Tennessee. It offers hands-on experience, skill-building, and insights into daily classroom life. It also helps with networking and strengthens your resume for future roles. While not required, it is highly recommended for aspiring teachers.