What you need to know about earning your substitute teacher certificate

If you’re just starting to get your feet wet with substitute teaching, you’ll likely have a lot of questions:

“How do I prepare for my first day?”
“What are the requirements for becoming a sub?”
“Do I need a certification?”

We’re here to help you navigate the nuances of substitute teaching. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about substitute teacher certifications, from state-specific requirements to tips on how to streamline the process. Whether you’re aiming to boost your credentials or simply want to ensure you’re meeting all necessary qualifications, Swing is your go-to resource for all things related to substitute teacher certifications.

Let’s get started.

The benefits of getting your substitute teacher certification

More and more schools across the country are requiring substitute teachers to have credentials. While it is possible to teach without one (i.e. in some areas, you can substitute teach for up to 30 days without a credential), the roles available to you will be severely limited and only the classified jobs will be open to you.

The steps to earning a credential do vary by state, but in case you need convincing before starting the process, here are some of the many benefits to earning your substitute teaching credential.

Unlimited opportunity

When you earn your teaching credential, the world of substitute teaching opens up significantly. You’ll be eligible for almost all substitute teaching positions, rather than just classified jobs. This certification grants access to nearly twice as many roles, allowing you to choose the assignments that best fit your schedule and interests.

Increased flexibility

With Swing, you have the ultimate flexibility to choose when, where, and how often you work. Whether you prefer short-term assignments or long-term placements, Swing allows you to tailor your schedule to fit your lifestyle, providing a work-life balance that suits your needs. With a certification, that flexibility increases even more

Credibility

Earning a credential proves that you have met a specific set of standards, making you a qualified and competent candidate to manage a successful classroom. If you prefer teaching a particular subject, obtaining certification in that area will boost your authority and confidence when teaching. Additionally, having a credential enhances your chances for career advancement, potentially paving the way to becoming a full-time teacher.

Job stability

A substitute teaching credential not only opens up more teaching opportunities but also helps you stand out from the crowd. It qualifies you for a wider variety of positions, including long-term assignments. These opportunities often come with higher pay, increased job security, and valuable experience, all of which are beneficial if you aim to become a full-time teacher.

Can I substitute teach without a degree?

The answer varies by state and school district. You can become a substitute teacher in many states and school districts without a degree. Some states, such as Pennsylvania, require a valid teaching certificate for substitute teaching, while others may require a separate substitute teaching license with different eligibility criteria. However, it’s important to note that obtaining a bachelor’s degree is often a prerequisite for earning a licensed credential in most states. This credential not only enhances your teaching qualifications but also opens up more teaching opportunities.

What’s the difference between a certificated and a classified sub?

While regular teachers must be certified or working towards certification, substitute teachers have more flexibility. A certificated substitute teacher needs to earn a credential that proves they have the necessary knowledge and skills for the role. In contrast, classified substitutes do not require this credential.

Certificated substitute teachers:

• Must have a credential
• Have met specific educational and training standards

Classified substitute teachers:

• Do not need a credential
• May have fewer restrictions on initial hiring requirements

Everything you need to know about SwingCert & state requirements

If you’re new to the classroom, keeping track of all the requirements to substitute teach may seem daunting.

Luckily, Swing is here to help guide you through all the ins and outs of becoming a substitute teacher. Before you can worry about leaving good sub notes or what to wear in the classroom, let’s go over some of the basics: certification.

What is a SwingCert?

As your partner in substitute teaching, we want to make it as easy as possible for you to get in the classroom.

The SwingCert program allows us to guide you through receiving your certification, with expert guidance throughout the whole process. With Swing’s help, you can earn your substitute permit in as little as two weeks, five times faster than earning it elsewhere. Additionally, in some states, having a substitute credential gives you access to double the number of open positions, higher pay, credibility in the classroom, as well as stability.

How does it work

1. Register (1 minute)
2. Complete questionnaire (4 minutes)
3. Complete and submit registration forms (1 week, $70-80)
4. Pay for permit (4 minutes, $103)
5. Forward issued permit as soon as you receive it (send to permits@swingeducation.com, up to $150 reimbursed)
6. Finish your SwingSub onboarding