Substitute Teacher Resume Examples and Templates

Substitute teachers, the unsung heroes of education, play a pivotal role in maintaining learning continuity. Navigating diverse classrooms and unforeseen challenges, they are the flexible, adaptable educators who step in when needed.

This guide will help you master the art of creating a concise yet impactful substitute teacher resume. Learn to highlight your qualifications, showcase adaptability, and demonstrate your passion for education.

Join us to write a resume that not only reflects your skills but also sets you apart in the competitive field of substitute teaching.

Substitute Teacher Resume Examples

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Pete M. Dalton

406 Apple Lane
Delavan, IL 61734
pmdalton@email.com
+1 (555) 555-5555

Objective:

Dedicated and adaptable substitute teacher with a passion for fostering a positive learning climate and supporting student success. Eager to utilize strong classroom management skills, subject expertise, and a nurturing approach to contribute to the academic growth and development of students at Delavan Unified School District.

Education:

Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.), University of Wisconsin

Graduated: May 2020

• Major: Education
• Relevant coursework: Curriculum Development, Classroom Management, Educational Psychology

Certifications:

• Substitute Teaching Certification, Illinois Department of Education, Certified: June 2023
• First Aid and CPR Certification, American Red Cross, Certified: July 2022

Experience:

Substitute Teacher | Delavan Unified School District, Delavan, IL | August 2020 - Present

• Execute lesson plans and instructional materials provided by regular teachers across various grade levels and subject areas, ensuring continuity in student learning.
• Maintain classroom order and discipline, foster a positive and inclusive learning environment, and enforce school policies and procedures.
• Adapt teaching strategies to accommodate diverse learning styles, abilities, and needs of students, including English Language Learners and students with special needs.
• Provide academic guidance, and feedback to students to facilitate their learning and growth.
• Collaborate with school staff, administrators, and other personnel, to address student needs.

Teacher Assistant | Delavan Elementary School, Delavan, IL | September 2019 - May 2020

• Assisted lead teachers in planning and implementing instructional activities and classroom management strategies.
• Provided individualized support to pupils, including tutoring, behavior management, and academic assistance.
• Created a positive learning environment conducive to student success.

Skills:

• Behavior management and discipline techniques.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Subject expertise in mathematics, science, language arts, and social studies.
• Proficient in using educational technology tools.

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86% of school districts have difficulty finding qualified substitute teachers. (MorganHunter)

Layout Recommendations

The resume for a substitute teacher should utilize a polished and succinct layout for maximum effectiveness. The language used should be clear, confident, and highlight relevant skills and experiences. It is also important to employ relevant industry terminology to showcase your qualifications.

Formatting

• Stick to a simple color scheme and avoid using too many colors or intricate designs.
• Choose a legible font (e.g., Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman) with a font size between 10 and 12 points for the body text.
• Label each resume section with bold and capitalized headings.
• Use bullet points to present information in a concise and easy-to-read format.
• Start each bullet point with a strong action verb for impact.
• Keep the resume length to one page, especially for early-career professionals or recent graduates.
• If submitting electronically, save your resume in a common format (PDF or Word) to ensure compatibility across different systems.

Language

• Customize your language to align with the specific requirements and preferences outlined in the job descriptions.
• Include relevant keywords from the job description to pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and increase visibility.
• Keep language professional and refrain from using slang or overly casual expressions.

Contact Information

When mentioning personal and contact particulars in a resume, it is vital to maintain brevity and relevance. Your resume should not include any unnecessary information. In the context of a sub teacher resume, here are some suggestions for effectively presenting contact data:

1. Include your full name. This should be the first thing listed on your resume. Ensure to utilize the name that you want to be referred to in a professional setting.
2. Specify contact information. Write your phone number, email, and physical address. Make sure to use a professional email and include a number where you can easily be reached.
3. Note LinkedIn profile (optional). If you have a professional LinkedIn profile, you can attach the link. This can give potential employers more insight into your experience and qualifications.
4. Keep it updated. Review your contact information regularly, especially if you change phone numbers or email.
5. Don't include personal details. It is not necessary to list personal details such as age or marital status on a resume.

Experience

When writing the experience section for a substitute teacher resume example, it's important to highlight your relevant skills, experience, and achievements. Even if you haven't held a permanent teaching position, you can emphasize your adaptability, and ability to quickly build rapport with students.

Here's a guide on how to structure and write this section:

• List your substitute teaching experiences in reverse chronological order.
• Mention the name of the school or educational institution where you worked as a substitute teacher.
• Include the dates of previous employments.
• Outline your responsibilities and duties during each position.
• Whenever possible, use quantifiable metrics to showcase your impact.

Review the examples of well and poorly written experience sections:

This substitute teacher resume example is effective for several reasons. It presents information in a good way and includes relevant details about the candidate's substitute teaching experience. Quantifiable achievements, such as managing a specific number of classrooms and receiving commendations, enhance the resume's credibility.

This substitute teacher resume example is considered ineffective because it lacks specificity and fails to highlight key accomplishments or skills. The vague language and lack of detail make it difficult for the reader to assess the candidate's actual suitability for the position.

When compiling and organizing employment history as a substitute teacher, remember to use bullet points, provide concrete examples, emphasize relevant experience, and include any pertinent certifications or training. This will assist in enhancing your resume's ability to showcase your qualifications for the job.

More than $2 billion is spent each year to pay for substitute teachers. (MorganHunter)

Education

A resume for a substitute teacher must strategically highlight and arrange your educational background to showcase your abilities and competence in the education sector. This section should be listed in chronological order, starting with the most recent education experience first.

1. Be specific and concise. Include the full name of the institution, degree obtained, major, and graduation date. Avoid using abbreviations or acronyms that may not be familiar to the recruiting team.
2. Highlight relevant coursework. If you have taken courses that are directly related to teaching or education, ensure to incorporate them in your academic section.
3. Employ bullet points. Instead of writing long paragraphs, use make use of bullet points to list your education information.

Now let's look at the example of how education can be listed and organized in a substitute teacher resume:

Master of Arts in Teaching

Michigan State University, Michigan

• Major: Secondary Education
• Graduated: May 2020
• Coursework: Classroom Management, Curriculum Development, Educational Psychology
• Certifications: Teaching Certificate for Grades 6-12, Special Education Endorsement

Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education

University of California, Los Angeles

• Major: Elementary Education
• Graduated: June 2018

In these substitute teacher resume examples, the education is presented with clarity and concision, equipping the hiring manager with all the essential details to grasp the candidate's qualifications.

Listing education information in an incorrect manner can harm your chances of getting hired.

This example lacks important details such as the degree obtained and graduation date. It also does not mention any relevant coursework or certifications.

By following these tips and using clear and concise language, you can effectively structure this resume section. Ensure that you give this block the attention it deserves when creating your substitute teaching resume.

Substitute Teacher Resume Skills

In today's intense job market, having a well-rounded resume is imperative for distinguishing oneself as a substitute teacher. This encompasses highlighting a diverse set of competencies, including both hard and soft skills.

Soft skills are personal attributes that enable individuals to interact harmoniously with others. These skills are typically not quantifiable and are more related to personality traits and behaviors. They are often considered equally or even more important than hard skills because they contribute to overall workplace productivity.

Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities that can be quantified and measured. They are acquired through education, training, or experience and are directly applicable to performing job tasks.

While soft skills are transferable across various roles and industries, hard skills are more job-specific.

Remember to prioritize skills that you possess and can confidently demonstrate in a classroom setting. This will help recruiters and hiring managers quickly assess your qualifications for the role of a substitute teacher.

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Substitute vs. Regular Teacher

Being aware of the nuances between substitute and ordinary teaching positions allows candidates to effectively communicate their understanding of the role and how their skills and experiences align with it.

New York, NY leads in demand for substitute teachers, while San Francisco, CA distinguishes itself with the highest average annual wage in the profession, totaling $39,574, surpassing other cities nationwide. (Zippia)

Substitute Teacher Resume Summary

A resume summary consists of a brief paragraph at the start of your resume that accentuates your notable qualifications and achievements. Learn useful techniques for developing a strong summary for a substitute teaching resume:

Highlight experience. The first thing you want to do is to underline your experience as a substitute teacher. This could include specific subject areas, grade levels, or types of schools you have worked in.

Example: Experienced substitute teacher with 5+ years of experience in both elementary and high school settings. Skilled in teaching various subjects, including English, Math, and Science.

Showcase your skills. As a substitute teacher, you need to be adaptable and have a wide range of skills. Use your resume summary to highlight some of these skills, such as classroom management, lesson planning, and working with diverse student populations.

Example: Proven ability to manage classrooms and create engaging lesson plans for students of all ages and backgrounds. Capable of flexibly adapting to a range of teaching styles and effectively connecting with students.

Add certifications or qualifications. If you have any relevant achievements, don't forget to mention them.

Example: Accredited substitute educator possessing a Bachelor's degree in Education and up-to-date CPR/First Aid certification. Familiar with state curriculum standards and able to provide meaningful instruction to students.

Apart from these basic elements, here are some supplementary recommendations:

• Keep it concise. The summary should be no more than 3-4 sentences long. Keep it focused on your most relevant qualifications.
• Use job-related terminology. Ensure that you utilize precise vocabulary and keywords) that are commonly employed in the education industry. This can increase the chances of your resume bypassing ATS and capturing the interest of hiring managers.

Overall, a well-written resume summary can help you stand out as a candidate for a substitute teacher position. By showcasing your experience, skills, and qualifications, you demonstrate yourself as a capable and dedicated educator.

Additional Information

In addition to the standard sections, a substitute teacher resume can benefit from including additional information that showcases your qualifications, professionalism, and suitability for the role.

Cover Letter

Your cover letter plays a crucial role in catching the attention of potential employers and showcasing your skills and qualifications. It is your initial interaction with the hiring manager and can determine whether or not you secure an interview. Consequently, crafting a powerful and attention-grabbing cover letter is crucial.

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Here are some overall tips on how to write a cover letter when applying for a sub teacher job.

1. Header. Include your name, phone number, and email at the top of the cover letter. Below your contact information, include the date and the recipient's contact data (if known), including their name, title, and the school or district's location.
2. Salutation. Address the cover letter to the recruiter or principal, if possible. If you don't have a specific name, you can use a general greeting such as "Dear Hiring Committee" or "Dear Principal".
3. Introduction. Start it with a strong opening paragraph that expresses your interest and briefly introduces you.
4. Relevant Experience. In the body paragraphs, expand on your applicable experience and skills. Tailor your examples to demonstrate how your background aligns with the requirements of the substitute teacher role.
5. Teaching Philosophy. Briefly discuss your teaching philosophy and approach to education. Explain your beliefs about student-centered attitude, fostering a supportive classroom community, and the importance of differentiation to meet the diverse needs of students.
6. Call to Action. Thank the reader for considering your application and express your willingness to discuss your qualifications further in an interview.
7. Closing Salutation. End the letter with a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best Regards", followed by your full name.

This cover letter effectively communicates the applicant's qualifications, enthusiasm, and suitability for the substitute teacher position. It is well-structured, personalized, and tailored to the specific requirements and values of the school, making it a strong application for consideration.

This cover letter is ineffective in persuading the hiring manager of the candidate's qualifications. It relies on vague statements and generalizations, mentioning Sudoku or babysitting does not provide credible evidence of proficiency in these areas.

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Cover Letter for Entry-Level Substitute Teacher Resume

Dear Mr. Brown,

I would like to apply for the position of Kornwell High School Substitute Teacher. With an education degree and an eagerness to positively affect the lives of students, I'm thrilled to have the possibility to improve their academic success.

Despite my newness in teaching, my foundation in educational theory, strategies, and classroom management techniques comes from my coursework. Throughout the internship, I had the opportunity to assist lead teachers with curriculum development, teaching, and individual student support.

Along with my education, I bring a strong work ethic, excellent communication skills, and a genuine passion for working with young students. I believe my enthusiasm, dedication, and commitment to lifelong learning make me a valuable team asset.

I appreciate your consideration of my application. I look forward to discussing with you how my skills and experience meet the needs of the position.

Sincerely,

Jane Mayfall

Pointers for constructing a cover letter for candidates who have not served as a substitute teacher before:

1. Relevant Experiences. Even if you don't have any work experience, you can still showcase relevant skills from your education, volunteering, or other activities that demonstrate your potential as a substitute teacher.
2. Tailor to the Specific Job. Make sure to read the job description carefully and address how your skills and qualifications align with the school's needs.
3. Passion for Teaching. Substitute teaching requires a genuine interest in working with students and helping them learn. Be sure to convey your enthusiasm and motivation for this profession.
4. Keep it Concise. It is recommended to keep your cover letter brief, at one page or less, and written in a professional manner. Refrain from utilizing excessively informal language or slang.

Proofread

When seeking a position as a substitute teacher, it is necessary to thoroughly review and edit your resume and accompanying cover letter. These documents are often the first introduction potential employers have to you, and any typos or syntaxis errors can negatively impact your professional image.

To guarantee a mistake-free substitute teacher resume and cover letter, use these proofreading suggestions:

1. Take a Break. After completing your resume, take a short break before proofreading. This will give you a fresh perspective when polishing your work.
2. Read out Loud. This can help identify any awkward phrasing or missing words.
3. Use Online Tools. Utilize online checkers such as Grammarly or Hemingway Editor.
4. Ask for Feedback. Have a trusted friend or family member read over your writings to catch any errors you may have missed.
5. Edit in Stages. Instead of trying to catch all errors at once, focus on one aspect at a time, such as spelling, grammar, or punctuation.

Making the effort to proofread and spellcheck your resume and cover letter can boost your likelihood of being hired as a substitute teacher.

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Conclusion

Writing a standout resume for substitute teacher requires careful attention to detail, strategic organization, and a clear focus on relevant experiences and skills. By following the tips outlined in this article, aspiring substitute teachers can create a compelling resume that effectively showcases their qualifications and positions them as strong candidates.

To simplify the process of creating a resume, we also recommend using an online builder. With this guide and substitute teacher resume samples, you can confidently create strong substitute teacher application documents and enhance your chances of securing your dream job.

So, what are you waiting for? Start writing your resume today and take the first step towards your teaching career!