What Substitute Teachers DoTeach students on a short-term basis as a temporary replacement for a regular classroom teacher, typically using the regular teacher's lesson plan.
- Answer students' questions.
- Assist students with boarding or exiting school buses.
- Attend professional meetings, educational conferences, or teacher training workshops to improve professional competence.
- Counsel students with adjustment or academic problems.
- Distribute or collect tests or homework assignments.
Substitute Teachers Education, Salary, and GrowthOnly you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Minimum EducationBachelor Degree
Career ProspectsGood (Increasing by 1-5%)
Training Time2 to 4 years
Job Openings61,100 Annually
Median Earnings
$57,260 in California
$38,470 Nationally
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Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
- Being creative or artistic
- Relating with or serving others
you value
- Accomplishing things
- Having freedom
- Personal relationships
you are skilled in
- Active Listening
- Critical Thinking
- Speaking
- Instructing
- Learning Strategies
- Reading Comprehension
Go Deeper: Substitute Teachers Explained
Substitute TeacherExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?
Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.
Post-Bac FellowshipA post-baccalaureate fellowship typically offers recent college graduates the opportunity to gain work experience, conduct research, and further develop their skills in a specific field, enhancing their qualifications for more advanced career opportunities.
🎓 Paid Work
⏱️ Finish in 1-3 years
Fellowship or Service ProgramA fellowship or service program typically provides individuals with opportunities to engage in meaningful community service or social impact work, while encouraging personal growth, developing leadership skills, and creating positive change in society.
🎓 Paid Work
⏱️ Finish in 1-3 years
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