How to get a job as a substitute teacher in metro Atlanta

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.

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.

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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Mary Caldwell

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