If you'd like to teach but want a more flexible gig than a full-time position can provide, substitute teaching can be a good alternative.
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A substitute teaching job in metro Atlanta lets you take or turn down jobs as you're able to, and you have summers and school holidays off – a big perk if you have school-age kids of your own.
Here's what you need to know about getting a job as a substitute teacher:
What are the requirements?
Requirements vary by district, but the minimum educational requirement is a high school diploma or GED. Even in districts that will accept this level of education, an associate's or bachelor's degree is preferred.
If you're a certified teacher, you'll have an even better chance of being a substitute, but's it's not required. You'll also probably make more per day. Some substitute teachers are working toward certification and a full-time teaching career while substituting for the contacts, experience and pay.
Districts also usually want you to complete a substitute teacher training program, either through the district or online. For example, Fulton County schools recommend the STEDI substitute diploma or a paraprofessional certificate if you're not a certified teacher.
Schools will want to see a copy of your college transcripts if you've started or completed college, and references are also required. You'll also need to undergo a background check.
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What can you expect during an interview?
Respondents to Glassdoor surveys reported the following questions from their interviews for metro Atlanta teaching positions:
- "Why do you want to be a substitute teacher?"
- "How do you get a student back on task?"
- "When is it OK to touch a student?"
- "How will you manage a classroom of middle school students after recess?"
How can you apply to be a substitute teacher?
Applications are usually taken throughout the year so districts can build a pool of applicants.
You can apply to be a substitute teacher at metro Atlanta schools at the following links:
Atlanta public schools: atlantapublicschools.us/page/1166
Clayton County schools: clayton.k12.ga.us/departments/human_resources/substitute_teaching
Cobb County schools: cobbk12.org/centraloffice/hr/employment/substitute.aspx
DeKalb County schools: pats.dekalbschoolsga.org/OpportunityListing.aspx (use the dropdown menu to search for substitutes)
Fulton County schools:fultonschools.org/en/divisions/hr/Pages/Substitute_Services.aspx
Gwinnett County schools: gcpsjobs.org/substitutes
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