Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Florida, FL

Florida, a state with 2,600,000 public students and 3,629 public schools is currently expanding its educational system. Due to recent economic upturn, the nation has seen an expansion in its educational systems and Florida is no exception. With more teachers being hired, more substitutes are required to fill positions, making now an opportune time to consider a position as a substitute teacher. There are few better ways of getting started in the educational field then substitute teaching, a job with many resounding benefits. One of the most important things to keep in mind when considering a position as a substitute teacher is the need for open availability, as a position may need to be filled with little to no warning. However, having a flexible schedule allows substitutes more free time to do things like continue education or work on the side. Potential full-time teachers greatly benefit from the experience substitute teaching provides, as it allows you to test the educational fields waters before diving in. Another bonus to substitute teaching is that most states do not require a Bachelors Degree, so it is possible to substitute teach while completing a 4 year degree.

Required Training, Qualifications, and Education

Whether a Bachelors Degree is required or not in Florida varies by district, so make sure to check with local schools and districts to meet any necessary requirements. In all cases it is also required to submit to state and federal fingerprinting and background checks, as well as have a high-school GED. Some districts may have other requirements so make sure to check before applying.

Licensure and Certification

The following situations are required for a 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
  • Meet any additional state requirements

Job Availability and Career Expecations For Subsitutes

There are numerous reasons to consider a position in the educational system, and with states expanding their school districts now is a great time to look into the educational field. There has been recent demand for teachers and substitutes alike as positive economic factors have allowed states to continue adding to their educational systems, especially now as the nation comes out of recession. Job security in the educational field is fortified by consistent state and national growth, causing educators to be in need well into the foreseeable future. Substitute teaching also looks phenomenal on any resume, be it working towards a full time teaching position or not. Many teaching positions are looking for teachers with experience, which is hard to get, making substitute teaching especially attractive. Another benefit of substituting is it is possible to continue your education or work part-time when not substitute teaching, as subs generally have pretty flexible work schedules. Regardless of whether you wish to become a full-time salaried teacher or not, substitute teaching shows potential employers you have valuable experience with very important skill sets including strong personal communication abilities as well as good organizational and information presentation strengths.

Salary Expectation

Currently, the average salary for a Substitute Teacher in Florida is approximately $31,000 a year (according to bls.gov) which is about 4% higher then the national average. Actual pay can vary greatly as final wages are dependent upon district, experience, and education. Additional income can be gained through other part time work when you are not substitute teaching.