Over the past year, many of us have faced challenges sparked by the incursion of COVID-19. Unfortunately, the disruption it has caused has not spared the education sector. While teacher shortages nationwide were already an issue, the pandemic has further exacerbated the substitute teacher shortage in Texas. Many teachers have chosen to not return – 1 in 5, in some cases – which has created a high need for substitute teachers to fill these critical positions. While this presents as problematic news, there is certainly a silver lining! YOU have the power to be part of the solution. Teachers are urgently needed.
Texas Teachers’ candidates: take hold of this opportunity and secure a teaching job now by applying to become a substitute teacher!
Why and How to Become a Substitute Teacher
Ever consider becoming a substitute teacher in Texas? Being a substitute teacher is an extremely rewarding career. Becoming a teacher is not only an investment for the future of students, but it is an investment for the teacher themselves. The Texas Education Agency, also known as the TEA, allows individual schools and districts to have their own substitute teacher qualifications. Read on to see how to become a substitute teacher in Texas, and to see if becoming a substitute teacher is a good choice for you!
How to Know if Substitute Teacher Is the Right Career for You?
Knowing if becoming a substitute teacher is the right career can be a hard question to answer. If you love working with youth, and truly want to make a difference in Texas classrooms, becoming a substitute teacher is something you should consider. Typically, the minimum education requirement to become a substitute teacher is a bachelor’s degree. There may also be additional requirements and exams made necessary by schools.
Steps to Become a Substitute Teacher in Texas
Below are more detailed steps on how to become a substitute teacher in Texas. Read on and use this as a guide if you’re interested in pursuing this career!
1. Get a GED or high school diploma.
Typically, schools require a bachelor’s degree to become a substitute teacher. However, some schools may only require substitute teachers to have a GED or high school diploma. Because it can vary by school, it’s smart to receive your GED or high school diploma as a first step.
2. Get a bachelor’s degree.
As stated above, it is very common for schools to require substitute teachers to have their bachelor’s degrees. While it is possible for schools to only require a GED or high school diploma, it is not common practice. It can be easier and potentially make you a more appealing candidate if you have the ability to pursue your bachelor’s degree before becoming a substitute teacher.
3. Pass a background check.
In order to become hired as a substitute teacher in Texas, all candidates must pass a background check.
4. Gain teaching experience.
Having teaching experience may not always be a requirement by schools for a substitute teacher position. However, not only can it make a substitute teacher feel more comfortable in the classroom, but it can help when pursuing a job.
Reasons to Become a Substitute Teacher in Texas
Becoming a substitute teacher in Texas can be very beneficial and rewarding. If you are interested in living in the Texas area or relocating, a substitute teacher position in Texas could be a great choice for you.
1. Network
One of the first reasons to become a substitute teacher in Texas is the idea of networking. Getting your substitute teacher certification in Texas and choosing to teach there will provide you with many opportunities to build professional relationships and network with potential employers.
2. Gain Experience
If you are interested in becoming a teacher, becoming a substitute teacher is a great first step. There is truly no better teaching experience than working in a real classroom. It can help you decide if becoming a teacher is right for you, as well as, give you great hands-on experience.
3. Receive Job Stability
When looking at becoming a substitute teacher in Texas, you should consider the possibility that you may be offered a long-term substitute teacher job. If this were to happen, you could teach in one classroom as you work on obtaining your Intern Certificate.
4. Market Yourself
As stated before, getting your substitute teacher certification in Texas and pursuing that career can help introduce you to many people in school districts. Working in schools allows individuals the opportunity to get to know principals and market themselves as individuals. If individuals chose to find a permanent teaching position, having taught as a substitute teacher in the school or district before can help them easily stand out amongst the competition.
5. Build Your Resume
Working in classrooms as a certified substitute teacher is a great addition to resumes. If you are looking to pursue a permanent teaching position, your experience may help you stand out. Many first-time teachers have not had any experience, so having substitute teaching experience could help you get hired faster in comparison!
Ready to Apply?
Great move! We’re ready to help. First, make sure your resume is up to date. If you need help creating or updating it, check out our Resume Writing Guide. Once you’re ready to start applying, you’ll want to keep a few things in mind. Each district creates its own set of qualifications. We’ve compiled a list from a few of the most prominent districts in Texas.
Houston ISD
Pro Tip: In Houston ISD, substitute teachers are called “Associate Teachers.”
QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED:
- 60+ college credit hours or an associate degree
- Pass a criminal background check
- Letters of referral
San Antonio is split into two districts:
San Antonio ISD
QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED:
- High school diploma or GED
- Pass a criminal background check
Northside ISD
QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED:
- 90+ college credit hours with a minimum 2.5 GPA
- Pass a criminal background check
- Complete an 8-hour training course
Dallas ISD
QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED:
- 60+ college credit hours
- Pass a criminal background check
- Complete a 7-hour training course
Austin ISD
QUALIFICATIONS NEEDED:
- 60+ college credit hours
- Pass a criminal background check
- Complete substitute orientation
Why You’ll Get Hired In Record Time
As the #1 district-preferred alternative certification program in Texas, school districts have specifically asked for YOU. The Texas Teachers program provides candidates with the highest caliber of training, and districts trust that you are focused on becoming a teacher. Our program equips you with the best teacher training, and school districts want nothing more than to supply their students with great teachers.
It’s your time to make a move; don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity! Kickstart your teaching career as a substitute teacher! Continue working hard to pass your TExES Content Exam and you’ll soon earn your Intern Certificate and subsequently, your Standard Certificate!
