Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Illinois

With 2,100,000 public students, 4493 public schools and a growing state population Illinois is currently in need of more teachers and substitute teachers. The state is and has been hiring more teachers which brings long inherent need for more substitute teachers to pick up the days that full-time salaried teachers need off. If you have been interested in becoming a substitute teacher now is an awesome time to look into it, substitute teachers have many unique advantages over regular full-time salaried teachers. With the ability to test out the education market as well have a more open schedule substitute teachers find it possible to work outside of substitute teaching as well pursue further degrees of education. It is however important to understand that you do need an open schedule as you go from a few days off to few weeks on job very quickly.

Required Training, Qualifications, and Education

Illinois one of the states that does not require a bachelors degree to become a substitute teacher. The state does however far you can go in for state and federal background checks as well as complete fingerprinting on an annual basis. Certain districts have different requirements so make sure to check with the district in which you wish to apply.

Licensure and Certification

The following situations are required for a four-year substitute teacher license–

  • Submit the Substitute Application through a local school system
  • Include any official transcripts, references, or other relevant material
  • Include required Application fee/s
  • Must reapply for certificate every four years

Career Expectations For Substitutes in Hawaii

With a growing state population teachers and substitute alike are in need in Illinois. This may sound awesome time to look into becoming a substitute teacher especially if you have any desire to become a full-time salaried teacher at any point in the future. Since a bachelors degree is not required to become a substitute teacher in Illinois, becoming one offers the unique advantage of being able to try out the education market without committing to a four-year degree. Coming out of the recession has allowed Illinois not only expanded educational system but also to offer increased salary to an existing and new teachers. Although everyone was hit very hard by the recession the education market proved to be more stable than most. Another huge advantage that substitute teaching gives is a sizable boost to any resume, especially when looking to move into a full-time teaching position.

Salary Expectation

The average salary of substitute teachers in Illinois is approximately $31,000 a year (according to bls.gov) which is about 6% higher than the national average. However it is important to understand that this number can vary greatly as substitute teachers income depends on experience and qualifications and district. Also since there can be gaps in employment while substitute teaching is possible to hold a job on the side or pursue further education.