Welcome back to school, New Jersey 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. For a full list of permits that Swing accepts in New Jersey, check out our Support Center.

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:

Upload a New Jersey teaching certificate (optional)
Swing accepts the New Jersey Substitute Teacher Credential, as well as the Certificate of Eligibility, Certificate of Eligibility with Advanced Standing, Provisional Certificate, or Standard Certificate with appropriate endorsements.

Subs can complete the rest of the requirements/screening steps without a credential if they reside in an area where there is a need for substitute teachers who are not credentialed AND if they have at least an Associate’s Degree.

Criminal background check
To complete the check, the State of New Jersey’s Criminal History Review Unit (CHRU) works with the New Jersey State Police (NJSP) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The process includes investigating criminal history and any previous complaints from school districts.

Depending on your history of employment in New Jersey, you may qualify for one of three types of applications: a transfer, a new applicant, or an archive applicant.

For more information on how to get your background check, visit our support center. 

Work history review
The work history review includes: 

• Affirming that the applicant has not been accused of sexual misconduct or similar claims
• Completing a form listing employers for the past 20 years where the scope of employment involved direct integration with children

Swing will also follow-up with those employers to confirm the applicants responses.

TB test
All SwingSubs in New Jersey must provide a TB test that shows a negative result, clearing them of active Tuberculosis infection. This TB test has to have been completed within the past 6 months to be valid. 

Learn more about our TB test requirements here.

Once you’ve completed the registration, screening, and signed the Swing COVID-19 policy, 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:

The Swing Cert program
When it comes to certification, let Swing do the heavy lifting! Earn your permit in as little as two weeks, gaining access to more open positions, stability, and higher pay!

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!