The Steps To Becoming A Substitute Teacher In Cook County Illinois (2024)

Becoming a substitute teacher in Cook County is a process that requires a few steps to be completed. First and foremost, individuals must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Secondly, they must complete an application and undergo a background check. Lastly, they must complete a substitute teacher training program. There are a few ways to become a substitute teacher in Illinois, but the process is generally the same.

A Professional Educators License (PEL) or a Substitute Teaching License (SPL) are required in order to substitute teach with Swing Education. You should apply if you do not already have one of these licenses. If you have a BA degree, your transcript must be submitted to the Illinois Board of Education (with the official transcript). Only if you have never been on Chicago’s Do Not Hire list may you apply for a job. Before you can start working as a substitute teacher, you must first obtain a license. According to the Illinois Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act [325 ILCS 5/4], substitute teachers are required to report any abuse or neglect they witness to authorities.

To be eligible for a substitute license, you must hold a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited higher education institution. Beginning January 1, 2023, students in a required Illinois educator preparation program may apply for a substitute license if they have completed at least 90 semester hours of coursework.

What Qualifications Do You Need To Be A Substitute Teacher In Illinois?

The Steps To Becoming A Substitute Teacher In Cook County Illinois (1)Credit: yubisn.blogspot.com

There are a few qualifications that are needed in order to be a substitute teacher in Illinois. A high school diploma or GED is required, as well as a minimum of 60 college credit hours. There are also a few tests that need to be passed in order to be certified, including the Basic Skills Test and the Illinois Teacher Certification Exam.

Because of the state’s growing population and public school population, Illinois currently needs more teachers and substitute teachers. Substitute teachers have unique advantages over regular full-time salaried teachers in many ways. To apply, make sure that the district in which you wish to apply has the same requirements as you. A substitute teacher in Illinois is estimated to earn around $31,000 per year (BLS.gov). This is slightly higher than the national average. In Illinois, you do not need a bachelor’s degree to be a substitute teacher. While substitute teaching can be an option, it is also possible to pursue a career or further education.

Those who have completed 30 semester hours at an accredited institution of higher learning and are at least 20 years old are now eligible for the credential to be considered for substitute teacher status. This change will make it easier for educators to find substitutes and will also increase the number of qualified substitute teachers. There are several things to keep in mind when applying for a teaching substitute. In the first instance, substitute teachers in Illinois typically earn $100 to $110 per day. A valid substitute teacher credential is required for all substitute teachers, whether they live in your state or province. Substitute teachers must also pass a state or provincial teaching certification exam, as well as a criminal background check.

How Long Does It Take To Get A Substitute License In Illinois?

Once you have received your transcripts and have completed your application, you will receive an email from ISBE (the Illinois State Board of Education), directing you to log in to your account to register your Sub License.

Can You Teach In Illinois Without A Teaching Certificate?

In order to become a teacher in Illinois, candidates must obtain a professional educator license from the Illinois State Board of Education. In Illinois, the requirements for obtaining a teaching license are the same as those in many other states. Educators are also required to complete a teacher preparation program that includes student teaching experience.

How Many Days Can You Substitute Teach In Illinois?

The Steps To Becoming A Substitute Teacher In Cook County Illinois (2)Credit: Herald & Review

A person who holds a Substitute Teaching License may teach in a single school district as long as no other teacher under contract in the same district is allowed to substitute teach for more than 90 days during the same school year.

Now that we have expanded to the greater Chicago area, we are able to provide services to more customers. Our tips and resources center allows substitutes to be paid on a weekly basis, receive potential bonuses, and have access to a variety of teaching opportunities within a variety of local schools. If you want to apply for substitutes teaching jobs in Illinois, please click here. Several districts and schools, including Chicago Public Schools, require teachers to be tested within four years of beginning their teaching careers. You must have your license registered before you can start working as a substitute teacher; once you have obtained your license, you must complete the registration process. Log into your ELIS account and go to the registration page to start the registration process.

According to a Center Square analysis, there will be 124,020 teachers employed in Illinois in 2021, which is a record high. There were also fewer students teaching in comparison, as the student population decreased by nearly 10,000 over the same time period, resulting in 124,020 fewer students teaching. Legislators are scrambling to find ways to fill a teacher shortage in Illinois. Legislators can propose changes to the licensure requirements for teachers. Educators in the state of Illinois must currently have bachelor’s degrees and be prepared to teach. Some lawmakers, on the other hand, do not believe this is sufficient. A teacher should also have a degree in a specific field of study, such as math or science, in order to fulfill this requirement. Despite the teacher shortage, the state of Illinois has hired more teachers than ever before. Legislators are however trying to find a solution to the perceived problem.

Substitute Teacher Rules In Illinois

Substitute teachers in Illinois are not permitted to teach more than 90 days per school year and must only spend 30 days per classroom assignment. Substitute teachers with valid teaching licenses can teach in the same room for up to 120 days in a row. A substitute teaching license in Illinois can be obtained in a variety of ways depending on the educator’s qualifications and experience. To be eligible for this license, applicants must have a minimum of an associate degree or 60 credit hours of undergraduate coursework (100-level or higher).

How To Become A Substitute Teacher Without A Degree

Substitute teachers must meet a variety of qualifications in order to work in schools in all 50 states, districts, and municipalities. A high school diploma (or GED) is required, but you can also pass a background check.

Substitute teachers may be just the job for you if you want a flexible schedule that allows you to immerse yourself in a variety of classrooms and a rewarding career. During a teacher’s absence, substitute teachers are responsible for ensuring that classwork continues as planned. Depending on the district, substitute teachers may be able to work in a different class or cover additional classes throughout the day. Substitute teachers in the United States earn a median annual salary of $36,090, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. A Subs who work in the top 90% of wage estimates can earn up to $51,850 per year. A substitute teacher in Alaska is not required to have a formal certification. Applicants in most districts are required to have a bachelor’s degree.

In order to become a substitute teacher in Arkansas, applicants must be at least 16 years old, have a high school diploma or GED equivalent, and have passed a background check. Substitute teacher permits are available for applicants in California. Substitute teachers in Connecticut must hold a bachelor’s degree and have a strong background in their field of study. A substitute teacher’s license is no longer valid in the District of Columbia. To be considered for the position, you must have a high school diploma and a satisfactory background check. Depending on their credentials and experience, a substitute teacher in Georgia can expect to earn between $151 and $178 per day. In Iowa, a substitute teacher has the right to a five-year license after obtaining a valid or expired teacher license.

A teacher preparation program is required in order to be eligible for employment as a substitute teacher in Kansas. In some cases, districts can hire substitutes with an emergency license in order to fill positions in high-need areas. According to reports, a teacher shortage in Maine is causing some districts to pay substitutes more and more based on their credentials. A student with an associate’s degree earns $85 per day, while a bachelor’s degree student earns $95 per day, and a certified teacher earns $100 per day. Substitute teachers are given permits to teach for varying lengths of time in Michigan. Substitute teachers do not need to obtain a license in Mississippi. Substitute teachers in Minnesota must have a bachelor’s degree and enroll in a teacher preparation program.

The Montana Department of Education does not have final say over the requirements for substitute teachers in the state. Substitute teachers and emergency substitutes are both licenses issued in Nevada. A high school diploma is required to be eligible for an emergency teaching position, and the teacher can work for up to five days in a 20-day period. Substitute teachers in New Hampshire do not need a license to work. If you want to get a license in New Mexico, you’ll have to submit an application as well as a Superintendent Verification Form. In Ohio, a substitute can obtain a license for up to five years, or for one year, whichever is longer. Some school districts may have additional requirements, such as college credit earned or classroom experience.

A substitute teaching license in North Dakota is valid for two years and can be revoked at any time. To be considered for teaching in Oklahoma, you must meet the state’s ‘high standards’ for highly qualified teachers. If you have a teaching credential in Pennsylvania or another state and a bachelor’s degree, you can be a substitute teacher in Oregon with few qualifications. Substitute teachers in Oregon earn an annual salary of $181.91-$249.21 per day. Substitute teachers in South Dakota must apply directly to the state’s school districts for any open positions. Substitute teachers in Virginia can be hired to teach for up to 90 days during an academic year. Before you can teach in Washington state, you must have a valid teacher’s certificate from an approved teacher preparation program.

Substitute teachers in Vermont do not have to meet any specific set of requirements mandated by the state’s Agency of Education. A five-year substitute license is granted to teachers who have completed a state-approved educator preparation program. A three-year license may be obtained by completing the state-mandated training for substitutes and holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. If you are a retired teacher with a teaching certificate, you can apply for a Lifetime Substitute Teacher Permit.

The Importance Of Substitute Teachers

Substitute teachers are critical in our society. When a regular teacher cannot come to school, they provide a valuable service to students and their families. Substitute teachers are typically required to have a bachelor’s degree and some type of teaching preparation program in order to become certified. To be considered for certification as a certified substitute, candidates must have 30 semester-hour credits and must have their criminal history records cleared by a school district or other sponsor organization.

The Steps To Becoming A Substitute Teacher In Cook County  Illinois (2024)

FAQs

What are the steps required to be a substitute visiting teacher in Illinois? ›

Log into the Educator Licensure Information System (ELIS) at www.isbe.net/ELIS. 2. From the Action Center, select “apply for a substitute or short-term substitute license.” 3. Complete application and pay reimbursable fee.

What are the requirements to be substitute teacher for Chicago public schools? ›

Requirements include a bachelor's degree in any field and a substitute teaching license, which takes less than one week to obtain. Substitute teachers may also live outside the city of Chicago.

How much does it cost to apply for substitute teacher license in Illinois? ›

Substitute Teacher Application

Apply for the Substitute License in your ELIS account. A $50 application fee will be assessed electronically when the application is completed.

How can you prepare yourself for substitute teaching? ›

6 Tips to Help You Thrive As a Substitute Teacher
  1. Get There Early to Prepare. When you start a new substitute teaching assignment, arrive early so you can get acquainted with your new surroundings. ...
  2. Get to Know Your Colleagues. ...
  3. Have a Backup Plan. ...
  4. Make Discipline Fun. ...
  5. Bond with Your Students. ...
  6. Let Your Personality Shine.

How long does it take to get substitute license in Illinois? ›

Once your application is approved and your transcripts are received (typically 1-2 weeks), you will receive an email from ISBE (the Illinois State Board of Education), prompting you to log back into your account to register your Sub License.

How much does a substitute teacher make per day in Illinois? ›

Average Illinois School District U-46 Substitute Teacher daily pay in Illinois is approximately $237, which is 96% above the national average.

How much do subs get paid in Chicago? ›

Salaries by years of experience in Chicago, IL
Years of experiencePer hour
Less than 1 year$22.73
1 to 2 years$20.63
3 to 5 years-
6 to 9 years-
1 more row

How much do subs make in Chicago? ›

Average Chicago Public Schools Substitute Teacher hourly pay in Chicago is approximately $25.03, which is 74% above the national average.

Can you be a substitute teacher without a teaching degree in Illinois? ›

Not just anyone can be a substitute teacher. You must be licensed by the State of Illinois. To be eligible for a substitute teaching license, you must hold a bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution of higher education. The bachelor's degree does not have to be in an education-related field.

What is the new law for substitute teachers in Illinois? ›

The law is effective January 1, 2023. In the event of a disaster declaration, short term substitute teachers are only able to spend 5 consecutive days in the same classroom. Under Senate Bill 3907, this number is increased to 15.

How much do subs make in Illinois? ›

Salaries by years of experience in Illinois
Years of experiencePer hour
Less than 1 year$25.52
1 to 2 years$23.17
3 to 5 years-
6 to 9 years-
1 more row

How to get a teaching license in Illinois without a teaching degree? ›

To be accepted to an alternative teacher certification program in Illinois, candidates must first post a passing score on the relevant content area test. Candidates must then be accepted to an approved teacher preparation program and apply for an educator license with stipulations as a provisional alternative educator.

What do I need to know to be a first time substitute teacher? ›

If you're a first-time substitute teacher, follow these helpful tips to mitigate any problems and ensure you have a great first day.
  • Arrive early. ...
  • Greet the office staff upon arrival. ...
  • Introduce yourself to the students. ...
  • Set ground rules. ...
  • Stick with the lesson plan. ...
  • Have extra activities ready.

What do I need for my first day of substitute teaching? ›

Bring along your favorite 10-minute activities, games, and contests to keep the class focused if lessons finish early. Talk to staff at the school and ask them to give you a quick rundown of students that may need more attention or may be ready to help you out.

What questions are asked in a substitute teacher interview? ›

Consider these common interview questions:
  • Tell me about yourself .
  • What are your strengths?
  • What are your weaknesses?
  • What would your colleagues say are your best qualities?
  • Why do you want to be a substitute teacher?
  • What's your greatest accomplishment?
  • Where do you want to be in five years?
Mar 16, 2023

Can you teach in Illinois without a teaching certificate? ›

Like other states, Illinois requires a teaching license to work at public schools. Candidates must apply for a license through the Illinois State Board of Education. The process requires a bachelor's degree, specific coursework, student teaching experience, and passing scores on licensure exams.

Do substitute teachers get drug tested in Illinois? ›

Substitute teachers must take and pass a drug screen from Concentra. Bring this form and walk in at any Concentra Location to complete your drug screen. You can either walk in or schedule an appointment in advance by calling. Be prepared to pay for your drug screen.

How long does it take to get a teaching certificate in Illinois? ›

Traditional certification programs typically require that students complete at least 15 semester hours in an area of specialization or major in a teachable subject, such as math, English, history, or science.

Where do subs get paid the most? ›

Highest paying cities for Substitute Teachers near United States
  • Los Angeles, CA. $25.08 per hour. 216 salaries reported.
  • New York, NY. $24.05 per hour. 117 salaries reported.
  • Phoenix, AZ. $23.24 per hour. 98 salaries reported.
  • Detroit, MI. $21.36 per hour. 51 salaries reported.
  • Chicago, IL. $21.17 per hour. ...
  • Show more nearby cities.

How do I get a PEL in Illinois? ›

To obtain a PEL, you must complete an Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) approved program and pass state tests and requirements specific to their area of education.

What is the daily rate for substitute teachers in Chicago public schools? ›

Average Chicago Public Schools Substitute Teacher hourly pay in Illinois is approximately $24.67, which is 72% above the national average.

Are Chicago teachers the highest paid? ›

Chicago teachers are paid some of the highest salaries of any big district in the nation.

How much does hot topic pay in Chicago? ›

Average Hot Topic hourly pay ranges from approximately $12.46 per hour for Retail Assistant Manager to $20.40 per hour for Store Manager.

How much does Chicago Tube and Iron pay? ›

Average CHICAGO TUBE & IRON hourly pay ranges from approximately $17.25 per hour for Office Clerk to $24.52 per hour for Laser Operator.

How much does Subway pay in Chicago? ›

Average Subway hourly pay ranges from approximately $8.75 per hour for Customer Service/Data Entry to $19.34 per hour for Food Manager. The average Subway salary ranges from approximately $33,395 per year for Cashier to $45,000 per year for Early Years Educator.

How much do long term subs make in Illinois? ›

Long Term Substitute Teacher Salary in Illinois. $28,500 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $44,300 is the 75th percentile.

How much do Chicago subway drivers make? ›

As of Jun 27, 2023, the average hourly pay for a Cta Driver in Chicago is $18.35 an hour.

Do you need a Cbest to be a substitute teacher? ›

If you want to be a substitute teacher in California, you need a 30-day Substitute Teaching Permit. To get this permit, you must have a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution, have passed the CBEST, and be digitally fingerprinted using LiveScan.

How do I become a short term substitute teacher in Illinois? ›

How to become a substitute teacher in Illinois
  1. Earn a bachelor's degree. ...
  2. Apply for a substitute license. ...
  3. Find a school district near you. ...
  4. Apply for a substitute position. ...
  5. Contact schools. ...
  6. Remain open to communication. ...
  7. Accept substitute jobs.
Sep 30, 2022

Is there a teacher shortage in Chicago? ›

It is no secret that Illinois schools are facing teacher shortages due to issues exacerbated by the pandemic: a frustrating lack of resources, increased academic and social emotional needs of students and extremely high levels of burnout and other mental health challenges among educators.

What teachers are in demand in Illinois? ›

The most recent report from the Illinois State Board of Education on teacher supply and demand found that 99% of teaching positions were filled in 2020 and that vacancy rates were highest for bilingual and special education teachers.

How many hours does a sub work in a day? ›

Substitute teachers will typically work from Monday to Friday for six to seven hours a day, depending on the needs of the school.

Can you make a living off of being a sub? ›

They can. For some, subbing is a full-time job. For others, they just don't want a full-time job anymore. How were you, as a current or former substitute teacher, treated by the other teachers and staff of the school?

How much do public school teachers make in Illinois? ›

As of Jun 19, 2023, the average hourly pay for a Public School Teacher in Illinois is $45,919 an hour.

What is a Type 9 teaching certificate in Illinois? ›

Type 10 – Special Ed Teaching Certificate endorsed for speech/language. Type 03 – Elementary Teaching Certificate and Type 09 – Secondary Teaching Certificate.

How long does it take to get a paraprofessional certificate in Illinois? ›

Associate's degree or higher. 60 semester hours of coursework.

How much does my teacher make Illinois? ›

Salaries by years of experience in Illinois
Years of experiencePer hour
Less than 1 year$20.12
1 to 2 years$20.15
3 to 5 years-
6 to 9 years$23.50
1 more row

What should a substitute teacher wear? ›

Tailored pants, skirts, and jackets are generally considered appropriate, as are collared shirts and blouses. These convey a business-like demeanor that sets a serious tone. Tight and revealing clothes are prohibited, as is footwear such as open-toed shoes and sandals that could pose a risk for injury.

How do you introduce yourself as a sub? ›

Tips for Substitutes

Don't just introduce yourself to the students. Introduce yourself to the office staff, the custodians, and the teachers in your hallway, wing, or pod. Show that you care about them by asking about their expectations of you. How do they want you to communicate your needs during the day?

What is the most difficult task for a substitute teacher? ›

Perhaps the most daunting challenge that awaits any substitute teacher is the classroom full of students. New substitute teachers may worry about individual student needs, misbehavior, and how to keep a classroom of thirty students, or more, on task, focused, and cooperative.

What to do when students misbehave for a substitute? ›

Make rime during a class meeting for students to give each other compliments or appreciations about specific things they did to help the substitute. If you have to deal with a student who has been discourteous to a substitute, share your own feelings respectfully, and ask for help in rectifying the situation.

How do you make a good impression as a sub? ›

Here's how:
  1. Arrive Early. You expect students to get to class on time, so you should be able to get to work on time. ...
  2. Dress Professionally. According to recent studies, 55 percent of a first impression is based on appearance. ...
  3. Be Friendly. No one likes a negative Nancy. ...
  4. Leave a Detailed Note. ...
  5. Tidy up the room.
Sep 12, 2017

What are four basic questions you should ask when called to substitute? ›

5 Questions Every Substitute Wants Answered
  • Where is the restroom and do I need a key?
  • Where should I send attendance…and with whom?
  • Where's the vending machine?
  • Do you have any extra activities?
May 11, 2021

Why do you want to be a substitute teacher answer? ›

Sample Answer: I am looking for a long-term position that will allow me to work with a variety of students and teachers. I want to be able to learn from the other educators and help students learn in my time here.

Can anyone be a substitute teacher in Illinois? ›

Not just anyone can be a substitute teacher. You must be licensed by the State of Illinois. To be eligible for a substitute teaching license, you must hold a bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution of higher education. The bachelor's degree does not have to be in an education-related field.

How do I get my paraprofessional certificate in Illinois? ›

Short-Term Approval for Paraprofessional
  1. Individuals applying for the STA-Para - must use ELIS on the Illinois State Board of Education website, www.isbe.net. ...
  2. On your Homepage, under your Action Center box, click on “Apply for a Credential.” On the next screen, click Approval - Short-Term Approval for Paraprofessional.

Does Illinois have a substitute teacher shortage? ›

Of the Illinois school leaders from 690 school districts surveyed, 73% say they have a teacher shortage problem, 93% say the shortage is as bad or worse than last school year, 95% report receiving the same or fewer applicants for vacant positions, and 92% say they have a substitute teacher program.

How much do substitute teachers make near Chicago IL? ›

Average Chicago Public Schools Substitute Teacher hourly pay in Chicago is approximately $24.43, which is 69% above the national average.

Who pays most for substitute teachers? ›

Highest paying cities for Substitute Teachers near United States
  • Los Angeles, CA. $25.01 per hour. 218 salaries reported.
  • New York, NY. $24.05 per hour. 117 salaries reported.
  • Phoenix, AZ. $23.14 per hour. 98 salaries reported.
  • Detroit, MI. $21.36 per hour. 51 salaries reported.
  • Chicago, IL. $21.24 per hour. ...
  • Show more nearby cities.

How much do Chicago public school substitute teachers make per day? ›

Core Cadres earn between $250 and $300 per day, depending on your educational background.

Is the Illinois paraprofessional test hard? ›

While the ParaPro test is not overly difficult, it includes some challenging questions. Be sure to do plenty of ParaPro test prep! You can start with our free paraprofessional practice test. Work through the questions carefully and then be sure to review the explanations in order to learn from your mistakes.

How do I study for a paraprofessional test? ›

Tips for taking the ParaPro Assessment
  1. FAMILIARIZE yourself with the test before taking it with the Study Companion. ...
  2. READ the directions carefully.
  3. CONSIDER all answer choices before marking one.
  4. PACE your activities. ...
  5. GUESS rather than not respond at all. ...
  6. MARK your answers clearly and give only one answer per question.

How much is the paraprofessional test in Illinois? ›

The cost of the Paraprofessional Test is $70 and is given on an individual basis. There is also a study guide and practice test that can be checked out for a week. To set up an appointment for testing at the Macomb office, call Cassie at (309) 575-3226.

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