Top 10 Substitute Teacher Certifications

Certifications are important for substitute teachers in the job market because they demonstrate a commitment to professional development, as well as an understanding of the latest educational trends and best practices. They also provide evidence that the teacher is qualified to work in the classroom and has a thorough knowledge of subject matter. Certifications can be used to differentiate between applicants when schools are looking for qualified substitutes, potentially leading to more opportunities and increased pay. Additionally, certifications may be required by some school districts or states before being hired as a substitute teacher.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for substitute teachers and explain how they can enhance a substitute teacher's career.

What are Substitute Teacher Certifications?

Substitute teacher certification is a form of professional development that provides potential and current substitute teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful in their role. It is designed to help ensure that substitute teachers are prepared to take on any classroom environment, teaching style, or subject matter that may arise during their time subbing.

The certification typically consists of courses covering topics such as classroom management, lesson planning, student behavior, and curriculum standards. Depending on the state or district requirements, the certification may also include CPR/First Aid training and other safety protocols. By completing this type of professional development program, substitute teachers can gain the confidence they need to handle any situation that arises in the classroom.

In addition to providing the skills needed for success in the classroom, substitute teacher certification can also help make an individual more marketable when searching for subbing opportunities. Many districts prefer (or even require) certified substitutes as they provide a higher level of assurance that their students are receiving quality instruction while their regular teacher is absent. As such, having a certificate can often open up more job opportunities than those without one.

Pro Tip: Make sure to check with your local school district or state education department for the specific requirements for substitute teacher certification in your area. Every state has different regulations, so it's important to know the exact requirements before beginning the process.

Related: What does a Substitute Teacher do?

Top 10 Substitute Teacher Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Substitute Teachers today.

1. Substitute Teacher Certification

Substitute Teacher Certification is a certification that allows individuals to work as substitute teachers in public schools. It is issued by the state in which the individual wishes to teach and is valid for three years.

To obtain Substitute Teacher Certification, an individual must typically have at least a high school diploma or equivalent, pass a criminal background check, and complete an approved training program. The length of time it takes to get certified varies from state to state; however, most states require between 20-40 hours of training.

The cost of obtaining Substitute Teacher Certification also varies from state to state. Generally, the cost includes the fee for taking the required training course and any applicable fees for background checks or other administrative tasks associated with getting certified.

2. Teacher Aide Certification

Teacher Aide Certification is a certification that allows an individual to work as a teacher’s aide in a public or private school setting. It is typically obtained through a state-approved program and requires the completion of certain coursework, tests, and/or on-the-job training. The length of time it takes to get certified varies depending on the state and the type of program selected. Generally, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete the requirements for certification.

In order to become certified, individuals must first meet any educational requirements set forth by their state. This may include obtaining a high school diploma or GED, completing an approved teacher aide program, or passing an approved competency test. Once these requirements are met, individuals must then submit an application for certification along with any required documentation such as transcripts or proof of completion of a teacher aide program.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the type of program chosen and whether or not additional courses are needed. Generally speaking, most states charge a fee for certification which can range from $50-$200 depending on the state and type of program chosen. In addition to this fee, some states may also require applicants to pay for additional courses or tests associated with the certification process.

Overall, Teacher Aide Certification is an important step in becoming employed as a teacher’s aide in many public and private schools throughout the United States. It requires meeting certain educational requirements and paying applicable fees associated with obtaining certification but can open up new job opportunities for those interested in working in education.

3. Paraprofessional Certification

Paraprofessional Certification is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of paraprofessionals working in educational settings. It is intended to provide a level of assurance that paraprofessionals have the necessary qualifications to work in an educational setting.

The certification process typically takes between 6-12 months to complete depending on the requirements of the state or school district. The process includes completing an application, passing a written examination, and submitting evidence of relevant experience. In some cases, additional coursework may be required.

To get certified as a paraprofessional, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria set by their state or school district. This usually includes having at least two years of professional experience in an educational setting, passing a written exam, and providing evidence of relevant experience.

The cost for Paraprofessional Certification varies depending on the state or school district requirements but typically ranges from $50-$200.

4. Educational Assistant Certification

Educational Assistant Certification (EAC) is a certification program designed to provide individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to work as an educational assistant in a school setting. This certification is offered through many universities and colleges across Canada.

The certification typically takes between one to two years to complete, depending on the institution offering the program. It includes courses in curriculum development, instructional strategies, classroom management, communication and collaboration, assessment of student learning, and technology integration.

To get EAC certified, you must first have a high school diploma or equivalent. You will then need to enroll in an accredited EAC program at a college or university. Once you have completed the program requirements, you will be eligible for certification by submitting your application to the appropriate provincial governing body.

The cost of obtaining EAC certification varies depending on the institution offering the program and any additional fees associated with it. Generally speaking, tuition costs can range from $2,000 - $5,000 for a full-time program over two years. Additional fees may include textbooks and other materials required for coursework completion.

5. Classroom Management Certification

Classroom Management Certification is a professional development program designed to help educators become more effective in managing their classrooms. It involves learning about classroom management strategies, such as setting expectations, creating a positive learning environment, and establishing rules and procedures. The certification is typically offered through universities or other educational institutions and can take anywhere from one to two years to complete.

In order to get certified, students must complete a series of courses that focus on classroom management topics such as communication strategies, behavior management techniques, conflict resolution skills, and assessment practices. Students may also be required to complete a practicum or internship experience in order to gain hands-on experience with classroom management techniques.

The cost of the certification depends on the institution offering it; however, many programs offer financial aid options or discounts for those who qualify. In addition, some employers may offer tuition reimbursement for employees who pursue this type of certification.

6. Instructional Strategies Certification

Instructional Strategies Certification is a professional development program designed to help educators develop and refine their instructional strategies. It is intended for teachers, administrators, and other education professionals who want to improve their ability to create effective learning environments.

The certification program typically takes between six months and one year to complete. The program consists of online courses, workshops, and seminars that focus on topics such as classroom management, lesson planning, assessment strategies, and curriculum design. Participants must also complete a final project in order to receive the certification.

To get Instructional Strategies Certification, individuals must first apply for the program through an accredited institution or organization. Once accepted into the program, participants will be required to pay tuition fees which vary depending on the provider. After completing all coursework and passing any necessary assessments, participants will receive their certification from the provider.

The cost of Instructional Strategies Certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500 - $2,000 USD.

7. Special Education Substitute Teacher Certification

Special Education Substitute Teacher Certification is a certification that allows individuals to substitute teach in special education classrooms. This certification is required in most states for anyone substituting in a special education classroom.

The process and requirements for obtaining Special Education Substitute Teacher Certification vary from state to state, but typically involve completing an approved teacher preparation program and passing the appropriate exams. In some states, applicants may also need to complete additional coursework or training related to special education.

The amount of time it takes to get Special Education Substitute Teacher Certification depends on the individual’s educational background and experience. Generally, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete the necessary requirements.

To obtain Special Education Substitute Teacher Certification, individuals must first meet the basic qualifications for teaching in their state (which typically includes having a bachelor’s degree). They then need to apply for certification with their state board of education and provide documentation of their qualifications. Once approved, they will need to pass any required exams and complete any necessary coursework or training related to special education before they can be certified.

The cost of obtaining Special Education Substitute Teacher Certification varies depending on the individual’s state and educational background. Generally, applicants should expect to pay application fees as well as fees for any required exams or courses.

8. Early Childhood Education Substitute Teacher Certification

Early Childhood Education Substitute Teacher Certification is a certification that allows individuals to work as substitute teachers in early childhood education settings. It is designed for those who wish to work on a temporary basis in childcare centers, preschools, and other early learning environments.

To obtain Early Childhood Education Substitute Teacher Certification, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having a minimum of an associate degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university, completing at least three credit hours of approved coursework in early childhood education, and passing the appropriate state-approved exam. Depending on the state, additional requirements may apply.

The process of obtaining Early Childhood Education Substitute Teacher Certification typically takes several weeks to complete. After submitting the necessary paperwork and meeting all eligibility requirements, applicants must take and pass the appropriate state-approved exam. Once the exam is passed, applicants will receive their certification and be able to begin working as substitute teachers in early childhood education settings.

The cost of obtaining Early Childhood Education Substitute Teacher Certification varies depending on the state where it is being obtained and other factors such as any required coursework or exams. Generally speaking, however, costs can range from around $50-$200 depending on these factors.

9. Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) Substitute Teacher Certification

Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) Substitute Teacher Certification is a certification program for teachers who wish to teach English as a second language. The certification is designed to provide substitute teachers with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively teach English as a second language in an educational setting.

The TESL Substitute Teacher Certification program typically takes approximately three months to complete, depending on the student’s availability and course load. The curriculum consists of courses that cover topics such as linguistics, teaching methods, assessment strategies, cultural awareness, and classroom management. Students must also complete a practicum in order to receive their certification.

To get certified as a TESL Substitute Teacher, students must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least two years of experience teaching or tutoring English as a second language, completing an approved TESL training program, and passing the TESL Substitute Teacher Certification exam.

The cost of the TESL Substitute Teacher Certification program varies depending on the school or institution offering it. Generally speaking, the cost of tuition is between $500 and $1,000 USD. Additionally, some schools may require students to purchase textbooks or other materials related to the program which could add additional costs.

10. Curriculum Development and Assessment Substitute Teacher Certification

Curriculum Development and Assessment Substitute Teacher Certification is a program offered by the National Institute for Curriculum Development (NICD). The program provides certification for substitute teachers who have the necessary qualifications to teach in place of regular classroom teachers.

The program requires that applicants have a minimum of three years of teaching experience, as well as a valid state teaching license. Additionally, applicants must complete an online training course which covers topics such as curriculum development, assessment strategies, and classroom management. Upon completion of the course, participants will receive their certification.

The program typically takes four to six weeks to complete and costs approximately $200 USD. In order to get certified, applicants must register for the program through NICD’s website and pay the fee before beginning the course. Once registered, participants will be provided with access to the online training materials and will be able to begin working towards their certification.

Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive their Curriculum Development and Assessment Substitute Teacher Certification from NICD. This certification is valid for two years from the date of issuance and can be renewed after that time period if needed.

Do You Really Need a Substitute Teacher Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's situation and goals. If you are looking to become a full-time teacher, then it is likely that you will need a substitute teacher certificate in order to be eligible for employment in most school districts. However, if you are only interested in substitute teaching occasionally or if you already have teaching experience, then a substitute teacher certificate may not be necessary.

If you do decide to pursue a substitute teacher certificate, it is important to understand the requirements of your state or district. Generally speaking, most states require applicants to hold at least a bachelor’s degree and complete an approved program of study related to substitute teaching. In addition, many states also require applicants to pass background checks and take additional courses such as child development or special education. It is also important to note that some states offer different levels of substitute certification depending on the type of classroom setting and length of assignment.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a substitute teacher certificate depends on your own unique circumstances and goals. While it may not be required for occasional substitute teaching opportunities, obtaining one can open the door to more permanent positions in the field. Therefore, if you are serious about pursuing a career as a full-time teacher, then obtaining a valid substitute teacher certificate can help increase your chances of success.

Related: Substitute Teacher Resume Examples

FAQs About Substitute Teacher Certifications

1. How do I become a certified substitute teacher?

Answer: To become a certified substitute teacher, you must first obtain a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and meet the state-specific requirements for certification. Additionally, you may need to pass a background check, secure fingerprint clearance, and complete mandatory training courses.

2. What are the benefits of being a certified substitute teacher?

Answer: Certified substitute teachers typically enjoy job security and stability, flexibility in their work schedule, and the satisfaction of helping children learn and grow. Additionally, some districts offer higher pay rates for certified substitutes than uncertified substitutes.

3. Is there an age limit for becoming a certified substitute teacher?

Answer: Generally speaking, there is no age limit to become a certified substitute teacher; however, each school district has its own policies and requirements which may include an age minimum/maximum. It is best to contact your local school district directly to find out more information.

4. What qualifications do I need to become a certified substitute teacher?

Answer: In addition to obtaining a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, prospective certified substitute teachers will need to meet state-specific requirements for certification such as passing background checks and completing mandatory training courses.

5. Does having prior teaching experience help when applying for certification as a substitute teacher?

Answer: Yes! Having prior teaching experience can help with the application process as it demonstrates that you have the necessary knowledge and skills needed to be successful in the classroom setting as a substitute teacher.