Becoming a Substitute Teacher in California: Requirements & Qualifications

Interested in exploring a teaching career, but not sure you want to fully commit to it? Consider gaining valuable experience as a substitute teacher.

If you live in California, becoming a substitute teacher is now easier than ever. Keep reading to find out more about the requirements, qualifications, and steps you'll need to take.

What Does a Substitute Teacher Do?

Substitute teachers are an invaluable part of any school district. They fill in and teach classes when the regular teachers are unavailable.

Substitute teachers can teach any grade or class, from kindergarten through 12th grade. Those working with younger students may teach all subjects, while those teaching higher grades may specialize.

For example, if you are a high school substitute teacher, you may only teach English or history classes. You may need to receive specific certifications to be eligible to teach certain subjects.

Substitute teachers perform various job duties including:

• following the regular teacher's lesson plan
• monitoring student behavior
• writing reports and keeping academic records
• tracking attendance
• reviewing and abiding by school and district policies

Most substitute teachers work within school districts and may teach at various schools within the district as needed. Other substitutes work for individual private schools.

Substitute teachers may work irregular schedules since their job depends on the schedules of the regular teachers they fill in for.

What Qualities and Skills Do You Need To Be a Substitute Teacher in California?

Substitute teachers need to be good at working with kids of various ages and grade levels. They should have a basic understanding of various subjects or a more advanced knowledge of their specialization.

They need to be good at following directions and carrying out the lessons and plans put in place by the regular teachers.

They should be problem-solvers and critical-thinkers to minimize conflict within the classroom and get the most out of their students.

They should be excellent communicators, both when keeping written records and helping students learn and understand new information.

Finally, they need to be good leaders capable of managing a classroom, commanding respect from students, and teaching by example.

So, do you want to become a substitute teacher in California? Follow these steps.

Step 1: Obtain a Bachelor's Degree

All teachers, whether regular or substitute, are expected to hold at least a bachelor's degree in California. As a prospective substitute, you can choose from several options.

If you are hoping to pursue teaching as a full-time career, obtaining an education-related degree will provide the most direct path. Options include early childhood education and secondary education.

If you are interested in a particular subject and would like to keep your career options open, you could major in that subject. Examples include mathematics, biology, chemistry, English, and music.

If you want to pursue a career in social sciences but want to consider other jobs besides teaching, you could major in a field such as sociology, psychology, or social work.

Generally speaking, you can become a substitute teacher with any bachelor's degree. The major you choose will ultimately depend on your long-term career goals.

Step 2: Complete the Basic Skills Test

There are various tests you could take to receive optional certifications in California. These certifications help establish that you have advanced knowledge in a particular area.

One test that is not optional is the California Basic Education Skills Test (CBET). You will need to complete this test to obtain a substitute teaching permit in California.

The exam tests your knowledge in reading, writing, and mathematics. To pass the test, you must have a cumulative score of at least 123.

Other tests you can take to obtain optional certifications include:

• California Subject Examination for Teachers
• College Board Advanced Placement exams
• Career Technical Education permit exam

Step 3: Get a Background Check

All California teachers must undergo and pass a background check prior to employment. You will need to submit the results of your background check when you apply for substitute teaching jobs.

Your background check will be conducted by the FBI and California's Department of Justice (DOJ). It will involve getting fingerprinted, and the scan may take up to a week before your results are ready.

Some school districts provide fingerprinting services. You may also be able to get your fingerprints done by a third-party service. However, the background check will still be conducted by the FBI and DOJ.

Step 4: Obtain a Negative TB Test

Aspiring California teachers, including substitutes, will also need to submit the results of a negative tuberculosis test when they apply for work, or will need to be tested before starting a new job.

If you get tested ahead of time, your test results can be no older than 60 days at the time you complete your application for a permit.

Getting tested for TB will help your school district ensure you are fit for the job and will limit the spread of dangerous disease at school.

Step 5: Obtain a Permit

When you are ready to start working, you can apply for a substitute teacher's permit with the state of California.

There are four different types of substitute permits, and each has slightly different requirements. However, for each type of permit, you will need to submit college transcripts, CBET scores, and fingerprints.

As soon as you have your permit, you can begin applying for substitute teacher job openings in any school district or private school in California.

Become a Substitute Teacher in California Today

Becoming a substitute teacher is a great way to find out whether you want to pursue teaching as a full-time career. To become a substitute in California, follow the steps outlined in this article.