What does a Substitute Teacher do?
Substitute teachers are responsible for providing instruction and managing classroom environments in absence of the regular teacher. Substitute teachers are required to perform all of the duties of the teacher that they are subbing for. They usually report to the principal at the location to which they are assigned. Substitute assignments can be for just a day, a week, or sometimes for longer periods depending on the absence period of the regular teacher.
Substitute teacher are usually required to have a Bachelor's degree and a teaching credential. Substitute teachers often start substituting on a career path to become a full time classroom teacher.
- Implement and teache lesson plans and instructions as directed by the absent teacher, or consult with principal or other responsible staff if lesson plan is not provided
- Maintain a clean, respectful, and orderly classroom, and follow classroom and school procedures as directed by the school
- Leaves notes or completes a Substitute Teacher Report Form for the regular teacher at the end of the teaching day
- Communicate in a friendly and positive manner towards parents, students, and administrators
- Keep records on attendance, accidents and incidents
- Protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities
- Ensure the safety of students at all times
- High school diploma or GED, Bachelor's degree, or between 30 and 60 college semester hours (depending on state or type of school)
- Valid teaching credential preferred
- Experience working with children and students preferred
- Ability to communicate comfortably (written and orally) with students, parents/guardians, administrators, and others
- Ability to follow and enforce rules, policies, and procedures
- Frequent walking, standing, stooping, and lifting of up to approximately 30 pounds may be required
- Must be punctual and reliable
- Ability to pass a background check
Substitute Teacher Salaries
Average Base Pay
Substitute Teacher Career Path
Learn how to become a Substitute Teacher, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Substitute Teacher Insights
Kelly“If you want experience teaching this is a great way to start and find what age group you like working with”
Anchorage School District“The schedule as a sub is amazing and provides so much freedom to work and play as you please.”
Volusia County Schools“I enjoyed my time as a substitute teacher and many of the teachers were nice to work with.”
Huntsville City Schools“Being pulled last minute to cover classes other than what I was assigned to cover long”
Kokua“Great opportunity for networking if you are looking to further your career in the educational field”
Children's Institute“I’d give this company one star if it weren’t for the Sub Supervisors who are great to work with.”
Alpine School District (Utah)“There is not enough pay for someone who isn't retired or working another job.”
The Education Team“The pay is good but could be better considering what teachers have to deal with on a daily basis.”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of a Substitute Teacher
When working as a Substitute Teacher, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are CPR First Aid, English Language, Degree IN Education, Teaching Experience and Bilingual.
- Kindergarten Teacher
- Elementary School Teacher
- Teacher
- Preschool Teacher
The most common qualifications to become a Substitute Teacher is a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree and an average of 0 - 1 of experience not including years spent in education and/or training.