A Guide to Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Michigan

Becoming a substitute teacher in the state of Michigan can have varying requirements. What exactly is expected of a candidate is dependant upon the school district in which he or she is applying to substitute in. The one requirement that is common to almost all school districts though is the completion of a bachelor's degree.

To start the process to become a substitute in Michigan, candidates should contact the school district in which they wish to substitute. The school district will inform the candidate of which application he or she needs to fill out and where to go to fill out the application. This application, along with the processing fee, which varies by district as well, must be submitted by the school district, along with the applicant's official college transcripts, to the Michigan Department of Education. The school district can collect and submit all applicant materials, but the Michigan Department of Education must approve substitute teaching permits for all districts.

A few Michigan school districts do not require a bachelor's degree for a temporary substitute, who can fill in for a teacher on a temporary basis, but cannot fulfill a long-term substituting assignment. For instance, Wyandotte Public Schools require only ninety credit hours. These credit hours must come from a four year college, or can come from a community college, as long as the ninety hours are transferable to a four year college. If in doubt, someone from the applicant's school district, or someone from the Michigan Department of Education will be able to help the candidate in determining if they are eligible for a substitute teaching permit.

As in most other U.S. states, the salary is considerably lower for a substitute teacher than for a full-time certified teacher in either public or private schools. The salary of Michigan substitute teachers also varies from school district to school district. A school district employee should be able to quote the daily pay rate to an interested candidate.

One of the best things about substituting in Michigan is it is almost automatic. There is no real certification process, other than filling out the forms and showing proof of your degree or college course work. The pay is not much for an extended career, but substituting is an excellent way to try teaching on for size and see if it is the right fit for a long-term career in education.

For more information on substituting, or becoming a certified teacher, in the state of Michigan, check out the Michigan Department of Education's website.