| Aspect | Substitute Teaching | Teacher |
|---|
| Credentials | High school diploma or equivalent; some states require substitute certification | Bachelor's degree; state certification/license required |
| Work Environment | Temporary, short-term assignments in classrooms | Full-time, ongoing classroom instruction |
| Employer | School districts or substitute staffing agencies | School districts or private schools |
Substitute teaching involves filling in for regular teachers on a temporary basis, often with minimal preparation. Teachers hold full-time positions, responsible for ongoing classroom management and curriculum delivery. While substitutes need some certification, teachers require a degree and licensure. Both roles work within the education industry but differ mainly in duration and responsibilities.