Steps to become a substitute teacher in Minnesota

Becoming a substitute teacher in Minnesota is a great way to supplement your income and explore the world of teaching while completing your Minnesota teaching credential program, or while you seek out a permanent position after completion. Substitute teachers, also called reserve teachers in Minnesota, will have the opportunity to gain experience in the classroom and hone their teaching skills in preparation for their full-time teaching career.

There are different types of substitute teachers in Minnesota, but preference is given to those who hold a substitute teaching license, which requires a Bachelor of Arts in Education. In some cases, a bachelor degree in another subject will be enough to acquire a substitute teaching position; however, the school will be required to demonstrate that it is a hardship situation and that they essentially had no other choice.

1. Obtain a Bachelor of Arts in Education from a regionally accredited institution. Alternatively, you can also obtain a bachelor’s degree in another subject, but your substitute teaching options will be limited.

   Walden University Online
   Ashford University Online
   Western Governors University
   American Intercontinental University
   Argosy University

   * There are so many accredited colleges that offer teaching degrees, and it is very important to ensure that the college you select meets your budget and convenience. So get free information from more than one college to make sure that you are making the right choice.
2. Request, complete and submit an application packet, along with an application fee, official transcripts and supporting documents, to the school district in which you would like to teach.
3. Attend a substitute teacher orientation, as required by the school district.

To obtain more information or a list of Minnesota school districts, go to the .Minnesota Department of Education website.