Substitute Teaching?

Question

I am interested in pursuing a career in teaching but I am not 100% sure. I was wondering what other teachers did before going back to school? Does substitute teaching give you a good sense of what it is like to teach? I have a full-time job right now and I am hesitant to quit and start subbing...any advice?

Answer 1

You could volunteer at a school to see if you would like it - that way, you wouldn't have to quit your current job (maybe take a day or two off). You could also call a local school and see if they will let you "shadow" a teacher for a day.

Subbing is a little different - you get the classroom side of teaching but you don't really get the full effect of what it is to be a teacher. You have to learn how to juggle many demands (paperwork, meetings, parent conferences, special education issues, NCLB issues) during the school day while not letting it interfere with the education of the students.

Also look into the degree requirements that you would need to get in order to become a certified teacher. Many states offer a "probationary" certificate in which you have 3 years to get in the coursework that you need in order to become a state certified teacher. If you are interested in a "high need" area - math, science, sped. - then you will be even more valuable to the school.

Good Luck!!

Answer 2

I'm a sophomore and have a father that teaches at the same school I go to so this is what he does... Sets up the rules and if he were a sub he would let the kids know that he is not the teacher so most rules change. Only give them 1 pass in that period or whatever grade level you will sub except for elementary, and tell them if they lose that pass they won't get another. Don't put up with anything, if there is excessive talking or rude behavior, send a kid out in the hall or if needed to the office. I don't know what the rules of the school are, but, and not just because I'm a teenager, allow iPods and stuff. Once they do their silent work the could listen to their iPods and stay calm. Don't be afraid to give zeros. Take papers up if there is cheating, take phones up unless they're allowed to use them and other stuff. Remember, substitute equals temporary and teacher equals power. You may be the teacher for that day only, but you do have the power of a teacher. Good Luck. P.S. I hope you're not my sub. No offense...

Answer 3

Substitute teaching allows you to visit different school districts, schools, grade levels, subjects, and classrooms. You can pick up an assortment of classroom projects and discipline tricks.

While technically you are a teacher, you are never part of the staff. Even if you work as a long time substitute, you just aren't allowed to be a part of staff meetings or decision-making groups.

Most subs work for one day at a time and don't usually know in advance where they will be from one day to the next. There are usually no benefits associated with subbing and the (daily) pay is about 1/4 to 1/2 what a first year teacher makes. As an example, where I live a first year teacher makes $31,500 per year (180 teaching and professional development days) Assuming 200 days of work per year, that amounts to $157.50 per day. Subs are paid $50.00 (Uncertified with a Bachelors) to $70.00 (Certified with Bachelors or better). And, you won't work every day of the 180 days ($9,000 to $12,600 per year full-time)

I am certified and have about 4 years substitute teaching experience. While school administators suggest subbing as a way to get your foot in the door, I have discovered that some administrators dismiss subbing as not "real" teaching since you may not have to do lesson plans, set up classroom management and discipline systems, or interact with parents. I have done all these as a long-term sub and I am still looking for a permanent position.

If you want to get into teaching, this may be an option, but you should know what you are getting into. Talk to other subs about their experiences and good luck.

Answer 4

I started Substitute Teaching in November 1979 and finally got hired full-time as a Aide in Migrant Education and I had various positions in 26 years and 3 months. I have 3 years and 9 months, I'll have 30 years in and I will retire then I will go into drop for 5 years, by that time, I will have finish my BA in Education. I have loved my 26 years in education. I don't there's any other job, the most important thing is you have to love the kids.

Beverly Smith

Answer 5

I wouldn't necessarily recommend subbing. I am a teacher now and I used to be a sub. I have to say that my subbing experience didn't help too much when I became a full-time teacher.

If you feel passionate about being a teacher, then just do it. Go back to school and get your education degree. Unfotunately, nothing can really prepare you for what teaching will be like. But if it's what you want to do, then go for it.

Answer 6

Substituting is nothing like being a "regular" teacher. The kids know that you are only there for a short period and they can make it hell. Surely you remember that old game from your days as a student. The "student teaching" internship with a master teacher that is part of your certification program is a much better sampling of what is to come. I'd start working on my certification in some night classes if I were you and hold on to your current job while you do it.

Answer 7

Being a sub doesn't give you much of a clue about teaching except how the kids can act at their worst. They always test subs, or worse, ignore them.

Answer 8

Subbing will not be a good way of seeing how a classroom runs. I'd suggest observing a few classes. Call a principal at a school and see if they can set up some observations for you.

Answer 9

Subbing is NOT teaching, it is babysitting and taking abuse for a fee. Don't quit your day job unless you plan to go all out and get the right credentials. Subbing is a slow and painful daily death. trust me.