Online Class: How To Be a Substitute Teacher

no certificate
with CEU Certificate*
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12Lessons
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19Exams &
Assignments -
1,191Students
have taken this course -
4Hours
average time -
0.4CEUs
Course Description
Mastering the Craft of Substitute Teaching: From Inquiry to Impact
Stepping into the world of substitute teaching isn’t merely about filling in the gaps; it's about forging meaningful connections, molding young minds, and influencing the future of education. It presents a unique opportunity for those who harbor a passion for imparting knowledge, coupled with the desire for flexibility in their professional life.
However, as with any noble pursuit, the journey towards becoming a substitute teacher brims with queries and contemplations. You might ponder: What credentials do I need? What academic and practical training should I undertake? How can I impeccably plan and execute my lessons? What can I anticipate in a regular day of substitute teaching? And most crucially, how can I ensure that my teaching resonates, captivates, and guides students in the right direction?
Enter our comprehensive course, designed to seamlessly navigate you through every facet of substitute teaching—from the nascent curiosity about the field to confidently standing at the helm of a classroom, guiding eager learners.
By enrolling, you'll embark on a transformative journey where you'll:
- Understand the profound perks and inherent challenges of substitute teaching.
- Unearth the traits that distinguish an exceptional substitute teacher.
- Gain clarity on requisite qualifications and dive deep into the application processes.
- Familiarize yourself with indispensable knowledge every substitute teacher should possess.
- Decode the intricate tapestry of a day in the life of a substitute teacher.
- Arm yourself with tried-and-tested strategies to cultivate a focused, respectful, and engaged classroom environment.
- Gaze into the future landscape of substitute teaching, understanding its evolution and potential trajectories.
Substitute teaching is more than a profession—it's a calling, a responsibility, and a dynamic canvas where every day presents a fresh opportunity to inspire and be inspired. With our meticulously crafted course, you won't just be prepared; you'll be empowered, ready to step into any classroom with confidence, competence, and a genuine zeal to make a lasting difference. Whether you're on the cusp of this fulfilling journey or looking to refine your existing skills, this course is your roadmap to success in the world of substitute teaching.
- Completely Online
- Self-Paced
- Printable Lessons
- Full HD Video
- 6 Months to Complete
- 24/7 Availability
- Start Anytime
- PC & Mac Compatible
- Android & iOS Friendly
- Accredited CEUs

Course Lessons
Lesson 1. Harnessing Flexibility and Growth in Substitute Teaching
Acting as a crucial floater in educational settings, substitute teaching bridges gaps during teacher absences and fosters stronger community ties. Parents, retirees, and career changers alike find fulfillment in this role, impacting educational communities and gaining unique insights into the teaching profession.Lesson 2. The Interplay of Patience, Flexibility, and Communication in Substitute Teaching
Being a substitute teacher demands a blend of adaptability, patience, and enthusiasm for working with youth, allowing substitutes to beautifully transition between different age groups and subjects. Thriving in this role involves using diverse teaching techniques while mastering communication and classroom management to leave a meaningful impact.Lesson 3. Substitute Teaching 101: Requirements and Rewards
Substitutes play a crucial instructional role, meeting diverse regional standards that reflect unique educational landscapes. Mastering these requirements positions you as a key player in bridging educational gaps when regular teachers are absent.Lesson 4. Guide to Becoming a Substitute Teacher
The role of a substitute teacher is multifaceted, involving more than coverage for absent teachers; it's about fostering an engaging learning environment and inspiring students' curiosity and enthusiasm. By understanding regional educational needs and trends, substitutes can craft meaningful, impactful lessons that resonate with students.Lesson 5. Switching Roles: Insights into the Substitute Teacher Experience
Substitute teaching involves navigating unpredictable educational landscapes, with daily experiences varying based on numerous factors such as school culture and the grade being taught. This dynamic profession allows substitutes to make lasting impacts by adapting to challenges and engaging creatively with students.Lesson 6. Step Confidently into Substitute Teaching
The essence of successful substitute teaching encompasses storytelling and emotional intelligence, supporting inspired and meaningful interactions with students. By connecting curriculum to real-life narratives and maintaining an empathetic approach, substitute teachers can transform fleeting roles into lasting impacts.Lesson 7. Navigating School Dynamics
Adapting to different educational philosophies, from Montessori methods to structured curriculums, enriches substitute teachers' experiences and impacts their teaching strategies. Embracing such diversity allows substitutes to deliver effective instruction tailored to specific school environments.Lesson 8. The Art of Navigating Your Journey as a Substitute Teacher
A substitute teacher’s day begins with strategic preparation and culminates in thoughtful reflection, focusing on assessing the day’s achievements and identifying improvement areas. By fostering ongoing growth through feedback and peer connections, substitutes elevate their instructional capabilities and impact on student education.Lesson 9. Navigating Classroom Dynamics: Effective Management Techniques
Using positive reinforcements like praise or rewards can motivate students towards good behavior while nurturing a collaborative and engaging classroom culture. Providing consistent, clear consequences for misbehavior further maintains discipline and respect.Lesson 10. Navigating Classroom Challenges with Dignity and Effectiveness
Successful classroom management for substitute teachers hinges on a balance of proactive and reactive strategies, ensuring a seamless continuation of rules and expectations even amidst unforeseen challenges. A consistent enforcement of a well-defined plan and employing techniques like nonverbal cues, proximity, and positive reinforcement aid in maintaining order and fostering a respectful environment.Lesson 11. Impressions Last: Closing Insights for a Memorable Teaching Experience
The role of a substitute teacher is enriched by preparing attentive strategies and fostering meaningful classroom interactions. Skills in adaptability, reflection, and organization help create a positive educational impact and leave a valuable, long-lasting impression on the school community.Lesson 12. The Evolving Landscape of Substitute Teaching
With technological advancements, education has embraced digital platforms, reshaping substitute teaching roles to include proficient use of remote and blended learning tools. Recognizing these changes, substitute teachers are now equipped with modern methodologies, enhancing their adaptability and educational contributions.
Learning Outcomes
- Define how substitute teaching offers flexibility and balance by allowing individuals to tailor their work schedules around personal commitments and interests
- Recognize the role of substitute teaching in contributing to community involvement and continuity by stepping in during regular teacher absences to maintain classroom stability and learning continuity
- Demonstrate adaptability by effectively managing last-minute changes in classroom assignments and activities, ensuring seamless transitions and maintaining an engaging learning environment.
- Recognize and apply consistent classroom management techniques to establish authority and respect, minimizing disruptions and fostering a conducive learning atmosphere.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the impact of ongoing professional development and certification on a substitute teaching career.
- Identify state-specific requirements for substitute teaching by consulting relevant educational resources and websites.
- Demonstrate an understanding of state and district-specific educational requirements for substitute teaching by listing at least two qualifications needed in a chosen location.
- Identify three methods for finding local school districts and apply at least one method to locate a potential school district for substitute teaching applications.
- Demonstrate effective strategies for classroom management and student engagement as a substitute teacher, including clear communication and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Recognize the key differences in substitute teaching experiences between elementary and secondary schools, focusing on subject matter and student interaction.
- Define and demonstrate effective classroom management techniques for substitute teaching by applying strategies that establish routines, adaptability, and student engagement.
- Identify and utilize professional attire guidelines to make a positive first impression on students and faculty, enhancing authority and rapport in various teaching environments.
- Recognize and describe the differences in school policies, procedures, and cultures to effectively manage diverse classroom environments as a substitute teacher.
- Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
Additional Course Information

- Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
- Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
- Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
- View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
- Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media

Choose Your Subscription Plan
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Includes CEUs | X |
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Time to complete | 6 months |
No. of courses | 1 course |
Certificate & CEUs
This course only
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Includes CEUs |
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Self-paced |
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Instructor support |
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Time to complete | 6 months |
No. of courses | 1 course |
Certificates & CEUs
Includes all 600+ courses
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Includes CEUs |
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Self-paced |
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Instructor support |
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Time to complete | 12 Months |
No. of courses | 600+ |
Certificates & CEUs
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Includes CEUs |
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Self-paced |
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Instructor support |
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Time to complete | 24 Months |
No. of courses | 600+ |
Student Testimonials
- "Well organized and excellent selection of topics covered." -- Denise T.
- "Magnificent courses, how else could I explain it, thank you." -- Victor O.
- "Great instructor. Provides material in a way easy to comprehend." -- Kim M.
- "Helpful information and the instructor answered right away when needed." -- Claudia S.
- "Instructor was knowledgable about info." -- Cathy R.
- "Every lessons was planned well." -- Verona A.
- "All of it was helpful!" -- Cynthia S.
- "I just got my substitute teacher certificate and was looking for information to help me get started. This class covers everything that a new substitute teacher needs to know to get started. Now I can enter the classroom with confidence. It was all helpful!" -- Rena C.
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