How to Become a Substitute Teacher in West Virginia for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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West Virginia is facing a critical shortage of qualified substitute teachers, with over 30% of school districts consistently reporting unfilled positions. This shortage has placed strain on schools statewide, often requiring administrators or other staff to cover classrooms.

In response, the state has expanded certification options and support systems, making it easier for individuals to step into this vital role. These changes have opened doors for aspiring educators, career changers, and community members seeking flexible, meaningful work in education.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from certification requirements, application steps, salary expectations, and job outlook, so you can confidently begin your substitute teaching journey in West Virginia.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in West Virginia

• Aspiring substitute teachers in West Virginia must obtain at least a high school diploma or GED; some districts prefer candidates with college credits or a degree.
• Over 30% of districts in West Virginia reported unfilled substitute positions in recent years.
• Substitute teachers in West Virginia can earn an average salary $32,704 per year.

Table of Contents

1. What are the basic requirements to become a substitute teacher in West Virginia?
2. What training is required for first-time substitute teachers in West Virginia?
3. How do you apply to become a substitute teacher in West Virginia?
4. How much do substitute teachers in West Virginia make?
5. How do you renew or maintain a substitute teaching certificate in West Virginia?
6. What are the responsibilities of a substitute teacher in West Virginia?
7. How flexible is a substitute teacher’s schedule in West Virginia?
8. What challenges can arise during the licensing process for substitute teachers in West Virginia?
9. What are the benefits received by a substitute teacher in West Virginia?
10. What legal rights do substitute teachers have in West Virginia?
11. What are the career advancement opportunities for substitute teachers in West Virginia?
12. Other Things to Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in West Virginia

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

Emerging trends in the substitute teacher certification process in West Virginia suggest a growing emphasis on flexible educational pathways and streamlined eligibility verification. These changes may enhance accessibility while maintaining essential standards.

• Minimum Education: Candidates must hold at least an associate degree or have completed 60 eligible credit hours toward a bachelor’s degree, with some districts preferring a bachelor’s degree.
• GPA Requirements: A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 on all college coursework is required, ensuring academic competency in core subjects such as English and mathematics.
• Age and Character: Applicants must be at least 18 years old and demonstrate good character, along with physical, mental, and emotional readiness for classroom duties.
• Alternative Certification: In response to critical shortages, some districts may allow substitutes with an associate degree or 60 credit hours under a waiver system, broadening access for qualified individuals.
• Proof of Work Eligibility: Submission of federal I-9 forms and acceptable identification is mandatory to verify legal employment status in the United States.
• Local Preferences: Some counties may impose additional requirements or preferences, reflecting a tailored approach to meet specific district needs.

Prospective substitutes can explore options such as the ranking of the best associate degrees in education online to align their credentials with state requirements and emerging trends in substitute teacher certification process in West Virginia.

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

Emerging trends in West Virginia’s substitute teacher training requirements emphasize flexibility and digital accessibility. The process integrates practical skills with tailored local adaptations to better prepare candidates for diverse classroom environments.

• Completion of an Approved Training Course: Candidates must finish one of the WVDE’s self-paced online courses via Canva’s learning system, covering classroom management and instructional strategies.
• Initial Substitute Training Course: Enrollment in this mandatory course through the Teacher Professional Learning portal is required, with certification submission essential for the application.
• Professional Development: Continuous training includes renewal components to maintain competency, especially for those without a traditional education background.
• Local District Requirements: Individual districts may add orientation sessions or extra training reflecting their unique policies and priorities.
• No On-the-Job Training: The entire training is completed online before classroom entry, ensuring readiness without immediate in-person requirements.

These evolving standards in the West Virginia substitute teacher certification process highlight the state’s commitment to up-to-date and accessible education. Prospective educators interested in enhancing their qualifications might also explore opportunities like a master's of library science online to complement their teaching credentials.

In fact, substitute teaching attracts individuals from a wide range of educational backgrounds, including those both within and beyond traditional teaching disciplines, as shown in the chart below. While some have studied subjects like elementary education, business, or psychology, a significant portion hold degrees in various other fields. This diversity underscores the flexible and inclusive nature of substitute teaching as a career path, appealing to those with different experiences and professional goals.

How do you apply to become a substitute teacher in West Virginia?

The application process for becoming a substitute teacher in West Virginia is increasingly streamlined and digitally integrated, reflecting broader trends in educational administration. This evolving system not only ensures thorough vetting but also prepares candidates to meet modern classroom demands.

• Complete a County Application: Submit a local application provided by the county’s Board of Education, often available online to simplify initial steps.
• Register with WVDE Certification Portal: Create an account on the West Virginia Department of Education’s certification platform to manage your credentials and communications.
• Submit Required Documentation: Send official transcripts directly from your university to the county office along with federal employment eligibility forms.
• Schedule Background Check: After your application is processed locally, receive a code from WVDE to arrange fingerprinting and background checks, ensuring security and compliance.
• Complete Online Forms: Fill out necessary certification forms electronically, such as those for fingerprint background checks and long-term permits if applicable.
• Use Electronic Application Systems: Many counties utilize platforms like AppliTrack for submitting materials and tracking application status efficiently.
• Await State Approval: Final approval comes from WVDE after counties submit completed applications, allowing you to begin substitute teaching once notified.
• Participate in County Orientation: Some counties require attendance at an orientation session to familiarize substitutes with local policies before classroom placement.

Aspiring substitute teachers may want to consider states like California or Texas, which had the highest employment numbers in 2023, as shown below. California alone employed 72,710 short-term substitutes, indicating a strong and ongoing need. New York, Virginia, and North Carolina also offered thousands of opportunities. These states represent promising job markets for those entering or advancing in substitute teaching.

How much do substitute teachers in West Virginia make?

Substitute teachers typically earn between $24,000 and $38,700 annually, with the average substitute teacher salary in West Virginia around $32,704. This range reflects differences in local budgets, experience levels, and assignment lengths. The state ensures a minimum pay rate of 80% of the daily salary of full-time teachers, which creates a baseline, but variability remains significant depending on the district.

Looking closer at the median salary, it is near the average, indicating a fairly balanced distribution of pay within the middle range. However, this compressed salary scale suggests limited upward mobility within substitute teaching alone. For many, the role serves more as a stepping stone rather than a long-term career, especially since higher pay is generally tied to long-term or consistent assignments. Understanding this can help set realistic expectations for income stability and growth.

When compared nationally, West Virginia’s substitute teacher pay rates rank lowest among all states, about 17% below the national average. This gap highlights broader funding challenges impacting education compensation in the state. As education funding evolves, there may be opportunities for pay improvements, particularly if policy shifts favor better support for substitute roles.

Those researching pathways into education might consider the ranking of cheapest online education degrees to enhance qualifications and potentially access better pay or full-time positions in the future.

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

Renewing or maintaining a substitute teaching certificate in West Virginia involves a clear, structured process with evolving opportunities for flexibility and professional growth. Anticipate more digital integration and possibly expanded online coursework options in the near future.

• Check Expiration Date: Verify your certificate’s expiration, usually June 30, through the WVDE certification portal well in advance to avoid lapses.
• Complete Required Coursework: For a three-year renewal, finish six semester hours; for one year, complete three semester hours from a regionally accredited university, with many courses available online.
• Gather Documentation: Prepare official transcripts showing completed coursework, a completed renewal application, and proof of online fee payment.
• Obtain Recommendation: Secure an official recommendation from your employing county superintendent or supervisor, emphasizing your readiness and qualification to teach.
• Submit Application: Apply electronically through the WVDE certification portal and provide all materials to your school system’s Human Resources department for processing.
• Monitor Status: Track your application progress via the portal to ensure timely renewal and address any issues promptly.
• Leverage Professional Certificates: If holding a valid West Virginia Professional Certificate, you may bypass additional renewal training for Long-Term Substitute Permits, simplifying the process.

What are the responsibilities of a substitute teacher in West Virginia?

Substitute teachers in West Virginia play an essential role in maintaining instructional continuity and effective classroom management when the regular teacher is absent. Their duties require adaptability and commitment to uphold educational standards across diverse learning environments.

• Implement Lesson Plans: Substitute teachers carry out the lesson plans provided by the regular teacher to ensure learning objectives continue to be met seamlessly.
• Maintain Classroom Management: They manage student behavior and preserve order by following school discipline policies to foster a positive learning atmosphere.
• Provide Instructional Services: Full instructional duties are expected, including delivering lessons and supporting all students, especially those with special needs or at-risk backgrounds.
• Supervise Students: Ensuring student safety during transitions, lunch, and other assigned times is a critical responsibility.
• Document and Report: Attendance must be recorded, incidents reported to administration, and feedback left for the regular teacher regarding student progress.
• Adapt to Various Assignments: Substitutes often work across different classrooms or grade levels and must adjust quickly to new environments and expectations.
• Follow School and District Policies: Adherence to all local, state, and federal education regulations, including confidentiality and reporting, is mandatory.
• Hold Appropriate Certification: West Virginia requires a valid substitute teaching permit or certification, with minimum qualifications including an associate’s degree or 60 college credit hours.
• Participate in Required Training: Districts may mandate orientation or training sessions to ensure substitutes are familiar with local procedures and educational goals.

How flexible is a substitute teacher’s schedule in West Virginia?

Substitute teaching in West Virginia offers a rare level of autonomy, allowing educators to tailor their workdays around personal needs and commitments. This evolving flexibility is poised to expand further as districts increasingly embrace substitute pools that accommodate both brief and extended assignments. Legislative adjustments suggest future substitutes may enjoy even fewer restrictions on consecutive workdays, enabling longer-term placements without sacrificing retirement benefits.

Districts’ varying policies create a patchwork of opportunities, encouraging substitutes to actively manage their own schedules rather than conforming to rigid calendars. This adaptability supports diverse candidates—from retirees to career changers—who seek meaningful engagement without full-time demands. Moreover, as education technology advances, we might see remote or hybrid substitute roles emerge, increasing flexibility beyond traditional classroom settings.

When I spoke with a substitute teacher from West Virginia who graduated locally, he shared that scheduling is both a challenge and a gift. “Some weeks, I’m booked solid; others, I choose when to step in,” he explained. Navigating last-minute calls and balancing family life requires constant adjustment, but that freedom is what keeps him committed. “It’s not just a job; it’s fitting teaching around my life, not the other way around.” This growing demand for flexible coverage is reflected in teacher workforce trends—see the image below for a closer look at the current vacancy rate among public school teachers.

What challenges can arise during the licensing process for substitute teachers in West Virginia?

The licensing process in West Virginia can present administrative complexities that may delay entry into the classroom. Candidates often encounter detailed academic credential verification, mandatory training modules, and comprehensive background checks, which may vary by district. In addition, evolving state guidelines require applicants to stay updated on policy changes to ensure timely compliance. It is advisable for prospective substitute teachers to review the West Virginia substitute teacher licensing requirements for a clear understanding of the necessary steps and potential hurdles.

What are the benefits received by a substitute teacher in West Virginia?

Substitute teachers in West Virginia enjoy a range of evolving benefits that reflect growing recognition of their critical role in education. These benefits include:

• Retirement Benefit Continuity: Retired teachers can work up to 180 days annually as substitutes without losing retirement income, with potential unlimited days for critical needs roles upon approval.
• Pension Accrual: Non-retired substitutes may accumulate service credit in the West Virginia Teachers Retirement System, enhancing long-term retirement prospects.
• Leave Eligibility: Personal and catastrophic leave access is available for long-term substitutes, supporting their job security and well-being.
• Incentive Bonuses: Substitutes in extended roles might qualify for bonuses tied to low absenteeism, encouraging consistent attendance.

Looking ahead, the benefits of being a substitute teacher in West Virginia could expand further as districts seek to attract qualified educators. With increasing emphasis on professional development, those interested might explore an online bachelors degree in early childhood education cost to meet certification requirements and maximize opportunities within the system.

What legal rights do substitute teachers have in West Virginia?

Substitute teachers in West Virginia operate within a legal framework that balances certification requirements with limited employment benefits, reflecting a system designed to maintain educational standards while addressing staffing flexibility. Emerging legislative efforts suggest a future where substitute roles could expand, especially in critical subject areas, without compromising retirees' benefits.

• Certification Requirement: Substitute teachers must hold valid certification and are appointed by county superintendents with county board approval to cover temporary vacancies.
• No Seniority or Pension Accrual: Unlike full-time teachers, substitutes do not accumulate seniority or pension benefits, limiting their long-term employment advantages.
• Retired Teachers as Substitutes: Retired educators may be hired in shortage areas if no active certified teachers are available, with annual renewal and oversight by the state board.
• Legislative Flexibility: The 2025 "Connor Drennan Substitute Teachers' Act" allows certain retired teachers to serve long-term without losing retirement benefits, signaling potential growth in substitute teaching roles in STEM and language fields.
• Online Teaching Adaptation: Although no specific statutes address online substitute teaching, current laws apply equally to virtual settings, hinting at future regulatory developments as digital education expands.

What are the career advancement opportunities for substitute teachers in West Virginia?

Substitute teachers in West Virginia have promising pathways for career advancement, especially as the demand for qualified educators grows in critical subjects. Exploring these options can open doors to a more stable and rewarding role within the education system.

• Becoming a Fully Certified Teacher: By completing required training and obtaining certification, substitutes can transition to full-time teaching roles, expanding their professional opportunities and job security.
• Specializing in Critical Needs Areas: Focusing on subjects like STEM or foreign languages can increase demand for substitutes and improve chances for long-term assignments with additional benefits.
• Professional Development: Engaging in ongoing training enhances skills and prepares substitutes for broader responsibilities, supporting career growth.
• Leadership and Administrative Roles: Experienced substitutes might pursue roles in educational leadership or administration, leveraging classroom experience for systemic impact.

For those seeking to advance, exploring the cheapest online EdD programs can be a strategic step toward becoming a full-time teacher or educational leader in West Virginia.

What do substitute teachers in West Virginia say about their careers?

• Completing the substitute teacher program at Blue Ridge School gave me a solid foundation to understand the unique needs of West Virginia students. Starting my career as a substitute in a local school helped me appreciate the close-knit communities and the importance of being adaptable in various classroom settings. It’s incredibly rewarding to contribute to students’ growth while navigating the cultural richness of the Appalachian region. The job stability in these schools also provides peace of mind as I continue to develop my teaching skills. I’m proud to play a part in shaping the future of our youth here. - Janina
• My journey began with a substitute teaching certification from Charleston Area School, which opened doors to meaningful experiences across the state’s schools. Working as a substitute teacher has allowed me to witness firsthand the resilience and spirit of West Virginia’s students, inspiring me daily. The role challenged me to grow personally and professionally, especially in handling diverse classrooms with varying resources. It’s fulfilling to know that my efforts support the community and help sustain education despite the challenges rural areas sometimes face. - Armand
• After finishing my program at Morgantown Learning Center, I embraced substitute teaching as a way to explore different educational environments, both traditional and online. West Virginia’s natural surroundings and cultural heritage make every day unique, and I’ve learned to integrate local history and values into lessons that resonate with students. This career path has offered me numerous professional development opportunities, encouraging me to pursue further certifications and a full-time teaching role. Being part of this educational journey fuels my passion for making a positive impact on young lives. - Candice

Other Things to Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in West Virginia

Are online substitute teacher training programs in West Virginia legitimate?

Yes. Programs like ProTrain and Frontline Education offer legitimate, flexible, and widely recognized online training. These cover key topics like classroom management and instructional strategies. While many local districts offer or recognize training, choosing state-approved or district-accepted programs boosts your credibility and hiring potential.

Is substitute teaching in West Virginia considered full-time employment?

No. Substitute teaching is typically part-time and on an as-needed basis. There’s no guarantee of daily work or benefits. Daily pay ranges from $75 to $100, depending on the district. It’s a flexible role but not considered full-time employment by the state.

What skills do you gain as a substitute teacher in West Virginia?

You develop strong classroom management, adaptability, and communication skills. You also gain experience with lesson delivery, problem-solving, time management, and working with diverse student needs. These skills are valuable for advancing in education or related careers.

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

Yes. Substituting offers hands-on experience, builds confidence, and helps you understand school culture. It also strengthens your resume and provides networking opportunities. However, you’ll still need to complete formal education and licensure to become a full-time teacher.

References:

• All Education Schools. (n.d.). West Virginia teacher certification guide. https://www.alleducationschools.com/teacher-certification/west-virginia/

• Educational Partnerships for Innovation in Communities (EPIC) RESA 8. (n.d.). Sub teacher training. https://www.epicresa8.org/subteachertraining

• ERI Economic Research Institute. (2025). Substitute teacher salary in Princeton, West Virginia, United States (2025). https://www.erieri.com/salary/job/substitute-teacher/united-states/west-virginia/princeton

• McDowell County Schools. (n.d.). Personnel - Substitute teachers. https://boe.mcdo.k12.wv.us/page/personnel-substitute-teachers

• Mountain State Educational Cooperative Services. (n.d.). Substitute teacher training. https://mountainstateesc.com/substitute-teacher/

• Pocahontas County Schools. (n.d.). Substitute teaching. https://boe.pocahontas.k12.wv.us/o/pcs/page/substitute-teaching

• Teaching Certification. (n.d.). West Virginia teacher certification renewal. https://teaching-certification.com/teaching/west-virginia-teacher-certification-renewal/

• Teach WV. (n.d.). Become a substitute. https://teachwv.com/pathways-to-teaching/become-a-substitute/

• West Virginia Department of Education. (n.d.). Renewal of a long-term substitute permit. https://wvde.us/certifications/applications/form-2lr

• West Virginia Department of Education. (n.d.). WVDE certification portal. https://wveis.k12.wv.us/certportal/