Substitute Teacher Requirements
The state of Texas does not mandate the possession of a substitute teacher certificate. This means that there are no statewide prerequisites for individuals interested in substitute teaching within public schools. The specific requirements for substitute teachers vary as they are determined by individual independent and public school districts.
When applying for a substitute teaching position, you may encounter different expectations. For example, some public schools may request that you hold an official TEA-issued certificate, or they may accept certification through private organizations like STEDi or SubSchool. However, these requirements can differ from one district to another, and some districts do hire substitute teachers without certification.
If your career goal is to enter the field of education and you wish to earn income while working toward your teaching credentials, substitute teaching can be an ideal option. It allows you to gain valuable experience as you progress through a teacher preparation program.
The general requirements to become a substitute teacher in Texas include meeting age, educational, and criminal history criteria:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You must be a U.S. citizen or possess permanent resident status.
- You must successfully pass a background check, which includes fingerprinting and criminal history checks.In many cases, you will also be required to complete a substitute teacher training course, which can often be completed online or at select colleges and universities within the state of Texas.
It's important to note that a degree is not obligatory for becoming a substitute teacher in Texas. This flexibility allows individuals to explore the field of education without the commitment of pursuing a degree. If you are considering a career in education but are uncertain about furthering your formal education, you might explore alternative teacher preparation programs. These programs offer in-person or remote options that can accommodate a full-time work schedule.
However, it's worth mentioning that some Texas districts do require long-term substitute teachers to hold a bachelor's degree. In such cases, long-term substitutes are considered full-time district employees and must meet the same requirements as other educators in the district. This may entail access to hiring and retention bonuses, professional development opportunities, and even tenure or contract protections.
Requirements
Texas substitute teacher requirements
To become a substitute teacher in Texas, individuals must meet specific requirements that vary slightly depending on the school district. However, there are common steps and general qualifications needed across most districts. Here’s a detailed outline of the typical requirements and process:
Basic Requirements
Education Requirements
A high school diploma or equivalent (GED) is typically the minimum requirement.
Some districts may prefer or require at least some college coursework or a bachelor's degree.
Age Requirements
Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Some districts may require applicants to be at least 21 years old.
Certification Requirements
Substitute teachers in Texas generally do not need a teaching certificate. However, having a teaching certificate or being enrolled in a teacher preparation program can be advantageous.
Background Check Requirement
All applicants must pass a criminal background check and fingerprinting, conducted through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the FBI.
License Required?
No