Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Delaware, DE

Now is a great time to look into becoming a substitute teacher, coming out of the recession coupled with growing population has allowed school districts to begin hiring more teachers, and more teachers brings the inherent need for substitutes to fill their positions when they are gone. With a student population of 117,668 and 208 public schools, Delaware is also expanding it’s teacher base, which means you could be the next substitute teacher. In becoming a substitute, you must maintain a flexible schedule as time between jobs can be weeks or days, and you can go from not teaching one week to having a three week gig the next. Many people enjoy this as it allows you to work on the side, continue your education, or simply have more time to yourself to do the things you like.

Required Training, Qualifications, and Education

Depending on the certification you wish to receive, you may or may not need a Bachelor’s Degree to substitute teach in Delaware. For a class A certification you will need one, however for B, C, and D no bachelor’s degree is required. Certain districts do have other requirements then other so be sure to check with the district in which you wish to apply. For all positions state and federal background checks are required along with fingerprinting.

Licensure and Certification

The following stipulations are required for submitting a substitute teacher application-

  • Submit the Substitute Application through a local school system
  • Include any official transcripts, references, or other relevant material
  • Include required Application fee/s
  • Fulfill all necessary requirements for certification you desire (A, B, C, or D)

Job Availability and Career Expectations For Substitutes

Since it is possible to become a substitute teacher in Delaware without receiving a Bachelor’s Degree, many people find this job appeasing. However this does not mean that positions are not available, as continued population growth has forced school districts to continue hiring new teachers. Many current full time teachers started off as substitutes and greatly value the experience as it not only boosted their resume immensely, but allowed them to feel out the educational industry before fully commenting to all of the requirements that are needed to become a full time teacher. The educational system has proved to be a relatively stable job market, most teachers fairing well through the economic downturn, and as we come out of the recession we can expect them to do even better.

Salary Expectation

The average salary of substitute teachers in Delaware is approximately $28,000 a year (according to bls.gov), which is about 6% lower then the national average. While this number is above the national average, it is helpful to keep in mind your actual salary may vary as substitutes are payed according to district, experience, and certification. Additionally, many substitutes find it possible to work on the side to supplement income or continue education. In any case, compared with many jobs that don’t require a Bachelor’s Degree, substitute teachers make a good salary