How to Be a Substitute Teacher in New Mexico

<table border="1"><tr><td> Education/Experience Required* </td><td> High school diploma or equivalent; 18 years old</td></tr> <tr><td> Exam Requirements </td><td> None</td></tr> <tr><td> License Process </td><td> $35 processing fee; Superintendent's verification form</td></tr> <tr><td> Average Salary (2018)** </td><td> $24,300</td></tr> <tr><td>Estimated Job Growth (2016-2026)** </td><td> 7-8% nationally projected growth rate for kindergarten through high school full-time teachers (no statistics listed for substitute teachers)</td></tr> </table><p><i>Source: *New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED) **U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)</i> </p><h3 id="section---JobDescription">Job Description</h3><p>Substitute teachers play an essential role in the school system. Providing classroom coverage when full-time teachers take sick leave or go on vacation, substitute teachers help prevent disruptive gaps in the curriculum. With substitute teachers needed in openings concerning students from kindergarten through high school, substitute teachers can take part in helping students of all ages grow and learn. Offering a flexible workweek and providing valuable teaching experience, substitute teaching is a great part-time position for individuals looking to play a role in the education system or for individuals training to become full-time teachers. </p><h3 id="section---EducationRequirements">Education Requirements</h3><p>New Mexico requires a lower minimum level of education for substitute teachers than most states. Due in part to the high demand for substitute teachers, there are no higher education requirements for becoming a substitute teacher in New Mexico at this time. Individuals applying for substitute teaching certification in New Mexico need to have at least a high school diploma or its equivalent. New Mexico teaching standards are still high, and approval is required at the district level for all prospective substitute teachers. </p><h3 id="section---ExamRequirements">Exam Requirements</h3><p>New Mexico does not require prospective substitute teachers to complete any exams. Rules within the education system are constantly changing, so make sure to check with your school district for any procedural changes before applying. </p><h3 id="section---InitialLicenseApplication">Initial License Application</h3><p>To become a substitute teacher in the state of New Mexico you must fill out and submit your application along with a $35 cashier's check or money order. In addition to attaining your high school diploma, its equivalent, or a higher degree, you must be at least eighteen years old. You are also required to submit a copy of the superintendent's verification form at this time. Approval is handled at the school district level, and a background check may be required. </p><h3 id="section---LicenseRenewal">License Renewal</h3><p>To renew your New Mexico substitute teacher's license, you need to submit your renewal application along with a $35 processing fee. You will also need to enclose your district superintendent's recommendation for support provider form. This recommendation must be filled out on letterhead from your school district. In cases of license expiration before renewal, an additional background check may be required.</p>