How to Become a Substitute Teacher

SUBSTITUTE TEACHING PERMIT

On April 3, 2003, the rule for substitute permits was promulgated. The rule put into effect the system for substitute teachers that had been piloted by the Indiana Professional Standards Board (IPSB) in August of 1996. The rule allows school districts to establish their own standards and minimum requirements for substitute teachers. The district must have a plan on file with the IPSB and must outline the following:

1. Education requirements;
2. In-service/pre-training design;
3. The screening process, including criminal background and reference checks;
4. An assessment process; and,
5. Any plans for reciprocity with other school districts' substitute permits.

The substitute rule establishes that all substitute permits will be valid for three years from the date the application materials arrive in our office.

WHAT DO I DO TO BECOME A SUBSTITUTE TEACHER?

• Contact the school corporation for which you wish to substitute. To obtain an Indiana School Directory, contact the Indiana Department of Education's Division of Publications.
• The school corporations will indicate whether or not you meet the guidelines outlined in their substitute teacher program plans. NOTE: If you hold a professional, standard, or reciprocal license, you do not need a substitute certificate to serve as a substitute teacher.
• If you meet their requirements, submit a request for the limited criminal history report from the Indiana State Police. When you receive the report, submit it to the school corporation.
• Complete an application for substitute teaching, provided by the school corporation, and submit it to the school.
• The school corporation recommends individuals who meet their standards to the IPSB for the Substitute Teacher's Certificate.