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$19K

$42.2K

$69K

How much do substitute teaching jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for substitute teaching in the United States is $42,244.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,000.00 and $50,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Substitute Teacher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Substitute Teacher, you need classroom management skills, adaptability, and a foundational understanding of instructional techniques, often supported by a bachelor's degree or substitute teaching certification. Familiarity with digital learning platforms, attendance systems, and school district policies is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to quickly build rapport with students are standout soft skills. These abilities are crucial to maintaining a positive learning environment and ensuring continuity of instruction during teacher absences.

What disqualifies you from being a substitute teacher?

Substitute teaching candidates are typically disqualified if they have a criminal background, lack required certifications or background checks, or do not meet age or educational requirements set by the school district. Additionally, poor references or a history of misconduct can also disqualify applicants from becoming substitute teachers.

What are some common challenges substitute teachers face, and how can they prepare for them?

Substitute teachers often encounter challenges such as unfamiliar classroom environments, varying lesson plans, and managing students they have not previously met. To prepare, it's helpful to arrive early, review any notes or lesson plans left by the regular teacher, and establish clear expectations with students at the outset. Flexibility, strong classroom management skills, and the ability to adapt quickly to different teaching situations can help substitutes succeed and create a positive learning experience for students.

What is substitute teaching?

Substitute teaching is when an educator temporarily fills in for a regular classroom teacher who is absent due to illness, professional development, or other reasons. Substitute teachers follow lesson plans left by the regular teacher and manage classroom activities to ensure continuity of learning. They may work with students of all ages and in various subjects, adapting quickly to different classroom environments. Being a substitute teacher requires flexibility, classroom management skills, and the ability to engage students on short notice.

What is needed to be a substitute teacher?

To become a substitute teacher, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a background check, and complete any required substitute teaching training or certification. Some districts may require a college degree or specific substitute teaching licenses, and strong communication skills are essential for the role.

Is it hard to be hired as a substitute teacher?

Getting hired as a substitute teacher can vary depending on the school district and region, but generally requires completing a certification or background check. Competition may be moderate, and having relevant skills such as classroom management and flexibility can improve chances of employment.

What is the difference between Substitute Teaching vs Teacher?

AspectSubstitute TeachingTeacher
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some states require substitute certificationBachelor's degree; state certification/license required
Work EnvironmentTemporary, short-term assignments in classroomsFull-time, ongoing classroom instruction
EmployerSchool districts or substitute staffing agenciesSchool 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.

What do you need to be a substitute teacher?

To become a substitute teacher, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a state-specific substitute teaching license or certification, and a background check. Some districts may require additional training or coursework in education or child safety, and having good communication and organizational skills is beneficial.
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Substitute Teaching jobs near you

Substitute Teaching Assistant

Oak Park Elementary School District 97

Oak Park, IL

$120/day

Other

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Teacher Assistant Substitute 

Revised May 2025
 

Perm/contract: 

SY25-26

Department:

Core Instruction 

FLSA Status: 

Non-exempt

Reports to:

Core Instruction Administration

Primary Reporting Location:

Assigned School Buliding

Level:

PK-8

Compensation:

 $120/day

Date Available: 

SY26-27

Bargaining Unit & Classification:

 N/A

Supervisory Responsibilities: 

None

Portrait of a District 97 Leader:

  • Champions the vision of the school district
  • Models a forward-thinking and innovative mindset
  • Stewards public funds with a high sense of responsibility
  • Leads with an unrelenting commitment to universal student success
  • Demonstrates the ability to organize teams to achieve common goals
  • Leads with an awareness of the cross-functional nature of district work
  • Generates a culture of care for, learning with and service to the community
  • Aspires to the highest standards of integrity, professionalism and confidentiality
  • Demonstrates a passion for working with a culturally, racially linguistically diverse district team of administrators, educators and staff in all roles
  • Actively seeks feedback, including critical feedback intended for professional growth
  • Understands the intersection of public school leadership, student learning and equity
  • Courageously addresses adult behavior that does not meet professional expectations

About the Role

The job of the Teacher Assistant Substitute is to provide support to students and teaching staff in a classroom setting. The role involves helping students, especially those with special needs, to complete educational tasks, ensuring their safety and well-being, and supporting a positive learning environment. The Teacher Assistant Substitute conducts theirself in  ways that demonstrates their alignment and agreement with the district's equity commitments as expressed in  Board Policy 7:12: Ensuring Racial and Educational Equity. 

Essential Skills and Responsibilities:

  1. Ability to lift students is required
  2. To assist students academic needs.
  3. Ability to work and communicate with students in an appropriate professional manner required
  4. Ability to work collaboratively with others
  5. Assist the classroom teacher and student(s) in daily activities
  6. Demonstrate knowledge of students' needs, including but not limited to: educational, medical, physical, sensory, speech/language, social/emotional, recreational, vocational, etc., as established by the teacher.
  7. Under the direction of the teacher, maintain student behavior by utilizing behavior management strategies
  8. Operate all equipment related to support of teacher and/or student needs: copy machine, computers, assistive technology, related OT and PT devices, other items as required

Candidate Qualifications:

  • Associate's Degree, preferred
  • Illinois Professional Educator License or
  • Illinois Substitute Teacher License or
  • ELS with Paraprofessional Endorsement

Physical Requirements: 

This position requires the performance of light workwhich may require exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently to move objects. The position includes close visual acuity, frequent talking, hearing, walking and standing, occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling, some stooping, kneeling, crouching and/or crawling and significant fine finger dexterity.  The job is performed in non-hazardous environments and a clean atmosphere.  The position requires indoor and outdoor supervision during varying temperatures and climatic conditions. 



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