Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Rhode Island, RI

Current economic and growth factors make now an ideal time to consider a career in the educational system. One of the best ways to start out in this field is by substitute teaching. There are many advantages to being a substitute teacher, including a flexible schedule that allows for free time to do things like continue education, work a part time job, or simply relax on days off. Substitutes need to maintain a flexible schedule as they are on call and can be needed in very short notice. Substituting is a great experience for any potential full-time teacher as it allows the opportunity to test out the educational field before committing completely. 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. Rhode Island, a state with 157,362 public students and 344 public schools ranks 43rd in the nation for state population. Although Rhode Island is easily the smallest state in the union, there are still opportunities to substitute teach.

Required Training, Qualifications, and Education

Rhode Island does require a Bachelors Degree in the pertinent content area in order to become a substitute teacher, which is important to keep in mind when considering a position as a substitute. In all cases it is also required to submit to state and federal fingerprinting and background checks. 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 (valid for 1 year)-

  • 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

Career Expectations For Substitutes in Rhode Island

Rhode Island is one of the harder states in which to become a substitute teacher, as a content specific Bachelors Degree is required, however there are still many advantages in becoming a substitute. Prospective full-time teachers greatly value the experience of substitute teaching as it provides enormously important educational experience that can set apart a resume from the rest. The educational system has proven to be relatively stable, and growing state populations ensure a continued demand for educators in the future. The flexible schedule of a substitute teachers allows for continuing of education in pursuit of a more advanced degree, working a part-time job, or even taking time off to relax. Regardless of whether you wish to become a full-time salaried teacher or not, substitute teaching looks great on any resume as it shows you have numerous valuable skill sets including good information communication as well as organizational and personal communication strengths.

Salary Expectation

Currently, the average salary for a Substitute Teacher in Rhode Island is approximately $30,000 a year (according to bls.gov) which is about 2% higher then the national average. It is important to consider the fact that this number can vary greatly, due to the fact that actual pay is dependent upon district, experience, and education. Additional income can be gained through other part time work when you are not substitute teaching.