How to Become a Certified Substitute Teacher in Texas
The public school system in the State of Texas is decentralized. Texas public schools are administered by county governments, rather than Austin. Specific hiring practices and employment criteria therefore vary by county. Substitute teaching has a number of advantages--it provides teachers with a flexible schedule, decent pay, and is excellent work experience for those considering or transitioning to a career as a permanent schoolteacher. Additionally, it offers tremendous personal rewards as well, as you will be doing the important work of educating children and working with many children from many diverse backgrounds.
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Instructions
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Complete a baccalaureate degree at any accredited institute of higher learning. The degree can be in any subject, although if you want to go on to become a permanent teacher you must additionally complete coursework specifically in the field of education.
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Update your resume. Tailor it to emphasize related work experience, such as a background working with young people in an educational or recreational setting. Academic achievement is important, but so is demonstrating an aptitude or experience with classroom management.
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Contact the school district headquarters in the counties or municipalities in which you wish to teach. You can go to their web sites or contact them directly. Some districts charge an application fee to cover fees associated with fingerprinting and running a background check. If you have a felony offense on your record, or you have been convicted of any offense involving the abuse of children, it is unlikely you will be hired.
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Send your resume to the appropriate hiring authority with a cover letter requesting an interview. It is common now for school districts to contract with employment agencies, outsourcing their substitute teaching hires. Depending on the district, you may be sending your resume to and interviewing with an employment agency representative, rather than county or school officials.
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Follow the district's instructions regarding obtaining fingerprints for your criminal background check. In most cases, you will get them at an area courthouse or police station.
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Complete an approved substitute teachers' training workshop if required by your school district. These workshops are available at various times around the state. If your district requires attendance at one of these workshops, they will be able to provide you with the dates and times.
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