If you’re seeking flexible, yet meaningful and impactful work that keeps you on your toes, then you should consider becoming a substitute teacher. 

You don’t have to be an aspiring educator to step into the classroom. For those from all walks of life, substitute teaching opens the door to a plethora of possibilities. Most people consider it just a means to earn extra money. While substitute jobs certainly serve as a source of income, they open the door to the classroom (pun intended), inspire students, and build valuable skills that may not be gained elsewhere. From unmatched work-life balance to direct experience, subbing provides unique benefits that align with a variety of lifestyles and goals.

Below, we’ll dive into the upsides of taking your place at the front of the room and why being a substitute might be more rewarding than you think.

Flexibility

Substitutes are the masters of their schedules. Obviously, these teachers are obligated to specific school schedules for classes they agree to cover, but they have options for when, where, and how often they work. 

Very few professions allow you to put your personal obligations, lifestyle, and preferences above your work schedule. Not being locked into a rigid timetable or location allows subs to take or leave assignments as they wish. These assignments range from half-day, day-to-day, extended, or even permanent placements.

While every working professional would likely acknowledge that they could use more control over their schedule, substitute teaching lends itself to particular individuals. For instance, aspiring educators, retirees, freelancers, students, or those who just want the freedom to set their hours make excellent subs as their lives demand fluidity. 

Cultivation of Teaching Skills & Interests 

Experience is the greatest instructor, and this entry-level job provides invaluable hands-on experience. Whether subbing is used as a stepping stone for teacher hopefuls or those transitioning careers who are curious about new career paths, it could very well reveal more than you can imagine.

Subbing not only develops teaching skills but also transferable skills that apply beyond the classroom. Substitutes boast of skills such as:

• Classroom management

• Lesson plan planning and/or execution

• Student engagement techniques

• Effective communication

• Behavior management

• Adaptability

These teachers are able to explore diverse classroom environments, subjects, and age groups across different schools. This gateway can help you discover which grade levels and teaching styles you prefer while also showcasing your strengths and weaknesses. At the same time, such immersive exposure to teaching may bring you to the realization that education is not your calling. Even so, you won’t know for sure until you give the classroom a try. 

Networking

What better way to connect with school leaders, faculty, and staff than to work with them side by side on a trial basis? Whether you’re considering becoming a full-time teacher or filling another school role, networking while subbing offers a multitude of advancement options, both professional and personal. 

These connections offer mentorship, guidance, and insight that can help improve your teaching skills and open doors to new careers within education. Collaborating closely with colleagues fosters a cohesive work environment, enhancing both communication and teamwork, which directly benefits student learning and classroom management. 

Being an educator doesn’t come without its challenges, but having a support network makes navigating the school day easier to manage. From the investments of others, subs are more self-assured, have a stronger rapport with the school, and better understand their positive contribution. Simply put, a greater sense of belonging improves job satisfaction and empowers substitutes in and outside of the classroom. 

Substitute Teachers Help Shape the Future

Although substitutes don’t have a permanent role in the classroom, their influence is still felt throughout the school and community. Filling the gap when a teacher is absent ensures students don’t miss a beat. Students of all ages thrive on continuity, and your fellow educators appreciate maintaining stability too.

By minimizing the disruption of an absent teacher, subs ensure lessons stay on track, the classroom is effectively and efficiently managed, and students are motivated to learn. Educators – temporary or permanent – inspire, guide, and empower students to grow academically and personally. 

Entry-level Friendly

Substitute teaching makes working in education accessible, as the process of becoming a sub doesn’t involve excessive barriers. Many school districts hire substitute teachers with little to no prior experience. Requirements will differ from state to state and county to county, but generally, those who desire to be substitutes only need a bachelor’s degree or minimal certification. Districts often fast-track development by providing training and onboarding.

Aside from education of some sort, schools are not only in the business of educating students, but protecting students as well. Children should be safe as they learn. Thus, it should be no surprise that applicants must pass a background check. 

Education, training, and a clean background are important, but not the most essential qualities. Subs also need a willingness to learn and lead. This mindset is energizing and paves the road to success in teaching. 

Extra Earnings

Who doesn’t want extra cash in their pockets? Substitute teaching is a flexible way to supplement your income. Though it’s not uncommon for subs to have multiple jobs, you have the potential to earn enough from substituting to be your only stream of income.

Being in control of your schedule puts you directly in control of your paycheck. Whether you decide to teach part-time or full-time, you can increase your earnings without committing to a permanent position. It’s enriching work that pays and pays on your terms.

Why not become a permanent teacher instead?

Being a sub has countless benefits, but permanent teaching comes with certain advantages. Permanent teachers enjoy job security, which often includes health, retirement, and paid time off benefits. This ​​permanency also translates into stronger relationships with students as well as other teachers, leadership, and staff. The ability to develop long-term relationships cultivates a tighter-knit school community and a deeper impact. 

No doubt, permanent teaching is a more secure career choice, but substitute teaching offers a significantly similar experience with unparalleled flexibility and less commitment. For many, the balance between professional growth and personal freedom afforded is worth the trade-offs.

The Classroom is Calling

Substitute teaching goes beyond being a flexible position. It’s a chance to uplift, advance, and make a real difference. It doesn’t matter if you’re an aspiring educator, wanting to give back, or striving to work according to your rules. Your introduction to the classroom as a substitute teacher just might be the start of something rewarding. 

If you’re ready to step in and leave your mark, Zen Educate is here to help you get started by pairing your qualifications and interests with schools that need you the most. The platform provides access to a variety of opportunities and simplifies the application process. In turn, Zen Educate can help you get into the classroom before you know it.