Being a substitute teacher can be a great way to make some extra money, gain teaching experience, and control your own schedule.
While the job may not be for everyone, there are some definite benefits to being a sub.
Here are the top ten benefits of being a substitute teacher.
1. Flexibility
One of the biggest benefits of being a substitute teacher is the flexibility it affords you.
As a substitute teacher, you can choose when and where you work.
You can work around your other commitments, whether that means taking care of your kids or pursuing another job.
In addition, if there’s a particular school or grade level that you prefer teaching, you can request to only receive subbing assignments for those types of positions.
2. Gaining experience
If you’re considering a career in education, substituting can be a great way to gain some experience in the classroom.
When you sub, you’ll get to try out different teaching styles and methods and see what works best for you.
You’ll also get to know how different schools operate and what their culture is like.
If you perform well as a sub, you may even be offered a permanent position at the school.
3. Extra money
In addition to the flexibility and experience that substituting offers, it can also be a great way to make some extra money.
If you’re looking for a part-time job or just want to pick up some additional income, substituting can be a great option.
In most cases, you’ll be paid hourly, so the more hours you work, the more money you’ll make.
And since you get to choose when and where you work, you can easily fit substituting into your schedule.
4. No long-term commitment
When you substitute teach, there’s no long-term commitment required.
Unlike a traditional teaching position, which usually requires a one or two-year contract, substituting is typically done on a day-to-day basis.
This means that if you decide that substituting isn’t for you, or if you get a full-time teaching job elsewhere, you can simply stop subbing without any repercussions.
5. Know students
One of the most rewarding aspects of being a substitute teacher is getting to know students who may not be in your regular class.
As a sub, you’ll have the opportunity to work with students of all different backgrounds and abilities.
And since you’re only with them for a day (or possibly less), you can really get to know them as individuals.
In addition, since you’re not their regular teacher, students may be more likely to open up to you and confide in you about things that they wouldn’t tell their regular teacher.
6. Know teachers
When you sub, you’ll work with different teachers in different grade levels and subject areas.
It can be a great way to learn new teaching techniques and strategies, as well as get insights into how different teachers run their classrooms.
Getting to know other teachers can also help you make connections and build your professional network.
7. Getting out of the house
If you’re a stay-at-home parent or someone who works from home, being a substitute teacher can be a great way to get out of the house and interact with other adults.
You’ll have the opportunity to meet new people and see new places.
Avoid cabin fever and keep from going stir-crazy by getting out of the house.
8. Avoiding the politics
Another benefit of being a substitute teacher is that you can avoid some of the politics that come with traditional teaching positions.
As a sub, you’re not usually involved in decisions about the curriculum or school policies and you’re not responsible for managing a classroom of students on a daily basis.
This can be a great way to avoid some of the drama and conflict that can come with being a full-time teacher.
9. Making a difference
Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of substitute teaching is knowing that you’re making a difference in the lives of students.
Even if you’re only with them for a day, you can still have a positive impact on their lives.
When you sub, you have the opportunity to be a role model and mentor to students.
You can also help them learn new material and prepare for tests.
Simply being a caring and supportive adult in their lives can make a big difference in how they feel about school and themselves.
10. Rewarding!
Substitute teaching is a great way to make some extra money.
It’s also a great way to get to know students and teachers, learn new things, and make a difference in the lives of students.
So if you’re looking for a part-time job or just want to pick up some additional income, substituting can be a great option.
In most cases, you’ll be paid hourly, so the more hours you work, the more money you’ll make.
And since you get to choose when and where you work, you can easily fit substituting into your schedule.
Conclusion
A great way to make some extra money and help out students and teachers is substitute teaching.
If you’re thinking about becoming one, consider the benefits listed above.
Substitute teaching can be a very rewarding experience!