So You Want to Be a Substitute Teacher in Illinois: From Sidekick to Superhero in One Easy Step (Well, Maybe Two)
Ever dreamt of wielding the power of a whiteboard marker? Did substitute teachers in your youth seem like gloriously unsupervised hall monitors? Well, my friend, hold onto your highlighters – becoming a substitute teacher in Illinois could be your destiny! But before you swap lounging in pajamas for wrangling kindergartners, let's break down what you actually need to become a substitute extraordinaire.
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| What Do You Need To Be A Substitute Teacher In Illinois |
The Goods: Qualifications You Need
- A Degree (and Not Just in Patience): You'll need a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited institution. No worries if it's not in education – a degree in basket weaving could come in handy during naptime arts and crafts (probably not).
- Licensed to Thrill (Substitute, That Is): You'll need a substitute teaching license (SUB) issued by the Illinois State Board of Education. This involves an application, a background check, and a TB test – all the fun stuff that ensures you're superhero material, not a supervillain.
Pro Tip: If you already have a professional educator license (PEL) in Illinois, you're good to go! Skip the SUB license and head straight to the nearest school district.
Beyond the Basics: Skills They Don't Teach in College (But Maybe Should)
- Improv Master: Remember those awkward middle school dances? Substitute teaching is like improv – you gotta think on your feet and roll with the punches (metaphorically, of course).
- Jedi Mind Tricks (or Just Good Classroom Management): Knowing how to handle a classroom full of bouncing-off-the-walls energy is a must. Think of it as your own personal X-Men power.
- Patience of a Saint (Because Sometimes You'll Need It): Let's face it, kids can be a wild bunch. Having the patience of a saint (or at least a kindergarten teacher) will come in handy.
FAQ: Substitute Teacher Edition
How to apply for a substitute teaching license?
Tip: Don’t skip the small notes — they often matter.
Head over to the Illinois State Board of Education website [Illinois State Board of Education] to download the application and get started.
How long does it take to get a substitute teaching license?
QuickTip: Read again with fresh eyes.
The processing time can vary, but it generally takes a few weeks.
Do I need a physical to become a substitute teacher?
Tip: The details are worth a second look.
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No, but you will need to pass a fingerprint background check and a TB risk assessment or test.
How much do substitute teachers get paid?
Tip: Look for small cues in wording.
Pay varies depending on the school district, but you can expect to earn an hourly wage.
Is there any training required to be a substitute teacher?
Some school districts may offer training programs, but it is not generally required by the state.
So, there you have it! With a little determination, the right qualifications, and a whole lot of patience, you too can become a substitute teacher in Illinois. Remember, you're not just filling in for absent teachers – you're superheroes in disguise, making a difference in the lives of students one wacky school day at a time.
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