Substitute Teaching in Alabama
If you have always wanted to be a teacher but thought it was an unattainable dream, the state of Alabama might have a job for you. If you have a high school diploma, and can pass a background check, you have all the qualifications you may need to be a substitute teacher in many parts of the state. Obviously a bachelor or associate’s degree would increase your chances of being hired and some school districts require them. But the need for substitutes is so great in Alabama that a high school diploma or even a GED accompanying an Application for Substitute Teacher’s License can be enough to get your foot in the door.
When submitting their application, applicants must provide, along with proof of the education level, a cashier’s check or money order in the amount of about $80 (call local district to find exact amount) for application and fingerprint /background check fees. A current (within the last year) TB test (negative) and your social security card as well as picture ID will also have to be presented. You will need to deliver your application and other materials to the nearest school; where, you will be fingerprinted and your ID and social security card will be copied.
Assuming your background check passes inspection you will be given tax forms to fill out and your name will be added to the substitute teachers list. The list, with your name on it, will be sent to all schools in the district the first week of each month. Some districts may require you to attend a substitute teacher workshop or orientation.As a substitute teacher you can try out teaching to see if it is something you would like to pursue. Substituting can supplement the income of retirees or anyone who doesn’t need a steady income but would like a way of earning extra money. Working as a substitute teacher can also be an income boost for someone unemployed until they find full time employment or for someone who is freelancing or starting a home business.
Unfortunately substitute teaching doesn’t pay well. Alabama is one of the poorer states and its teachers are paid accordingly. Substitute teachers are paid only about half of what a regular teacher is paid. The wealthier the school districts the better the pay. The national average for a substitute teacher is $105 per full day. Half days receive half pay and long-term substitutes may be given a higher rate then those working per diem.
At certain times of year you will be more likely to receive an assignment. The first few weeks of the school year and the last few weeks are dry times for sub teachers; around midterms, particularly for high schools, are another time when there is little demand.
For more information visit the Alabama State Department of Education’s website athttps://www.madison.k12.al.us/departments/personnel/employment/Documents/SubApp709.pdf
With Alabama’s unemployment rate at 10.3 % as of June 2010, this might just be the answer to your employment prayers. If you really like the job it might even start you on a new career path.
Sources:http://www.nstasubs.org/FAQs/FAQs.html
http://www.onlinecollegeguru.com/careers/alabama/steps-to-become-a-substitute-teacher/
