Welcome back to school, Illinois substitute teachers! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the profession, we’ve got your back. This guide will help you get ready for the upcoming school year, ensuring you have all the tools and information you need to succeed in your substitute teaching journey.

Download our back-to-school checklist here:

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For returning Swing Subs
For new subs

For returning Swing Subs

As a returning substitute teacher with Swing Education, there are a few key steps to take to ensure a smooth start to the school year:

Download the latest version of the Swing App

Ensure you have the latest version of the Swing app downloaded on your device. The app is your gateway to finding and accepting assignments, tracking your schedule, and managing your profile. Regular updates often include new features and improvements, so keeping it up to date is crucial.

Make sure your certification is up to date

Verify that your teaching certification is current. If your certification is nearing expiration, take the necessary steps to renew it to avoid any disruptions in your ability to accept assignments. 

Review your teaching materials and familiarize yourself with any new educational tools or resources that may benefit your students. Prepare to bring your best self to the classroom, ready to make a positive impact on students’ learning experiences.

Need a hand? Check out our ‘Definitive handbook for substitute teaching’ to get started.

For new subs

Starting as a substitute teacher is an exciting opportunity to make a difference in students’ lives. Follow these steps to get started:

Find out if Swing is operating near you.

Complete screening steps

To become an active substitute teacher with Swing, you’ll need to complete a few essential screening steps in order to be eligible to teach:

Substitute teaching license and registration
To substitute teach with Swing Education, you’ll need to have a substitute teachinglLicense or a Professional Educator License (PEL) in Illinois. If you do not have any one of these licenses already, applying for a license is likely the best option.

You can also substitute teach if you have a BA degree (official transcript must be on file with the IL BOE) and either: a valid Educator License with Stipulations (“ELS”) or paraprofessional license.

If you do not have a Substitute Teaching License or a PEL, and instead hold only an ELS, we will need to verify that you hold at least a Bachelor’s Degree (BA or BS) from a regionally accredited university. 

Background check, including state & FBI fingerprinting
Take this form to an Accurate Biometrics location near you. Bring your form, a current government-issued picture ID (such as a driver’s license, State ID, or passport), and an approved form of payment (credit cards work). No appointment is needed.

Be prepared to pay for the background check. Background check cost is $63.50 as of August 2023, but is subject to change per the discretion of Accurate Biometrics. 

CPS do not hire list verification
Before teaching with Swing Education, you will have to certify that, to the best of your knowledge, you have never been on the CPS Do Not Hire List. If you have questions, please visit this link.

Mandated reporter acknowledgment form
Once you’ve completed the registration, screening, and provided proof of full COVID vaccination, you’re ready to start accepting assignments and teaching! Use the Swing app to find available positions that match your schedule and preferences.

Don’t forget about:

Referral program

Do you know friends or colleagues who would make great substitute teachers? Refer them to Swing Education! Our referral program rewards you and your friends. When they complete their first assignment with Swing, both of you will receive $100. It’s a win-win situation – you get to work with people you know and trust, and you both earn extra cash.

Get started with referrals today

At Swing Education, we are committed to supporting our substitute teachers in every possible way. By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to start the school year with confidence. Whether you’re a returning sub or new to the profession, Swing Education offers the resources and programs to help you succeed. 

Here’s to a fantastic school year ahead!