Question about the Job Search

[GatorMan]

I am just curious who on this website has been hired as a teacher with their only previous experience being that of a substitute teacher? I am substitute teaching this year and plan on trying to find a f/t teaching job for the start of the 2006-07 year.
I live in Florida, and in most places, they really need teachers, so I am sort of lucky. I have just received my temporary certification in grades 6-12 social studies (I am looking for middle school job). Regardless, I fear that I'll be quickly brushed aside because I have such minimal experience in a school setting. Does anyone feel that their lack of previous experience prevented them from being hired? I fear that my resume, not my lack of abilities, will cause me not to be hired next year.

 

[Substitute]

Depends

Well, it all depends on a lot of things. Things you have going for you are that you are in Florida, where they really need teachers; and that you are going for middle school, which can sometimes be hard to fill.

Your fear about your resume causing you not to be hired next year is valid. I am currently in this situation. I am in a state where there is an overabundance of teachers in my grade area (elementary). I haven't found a position, and have been subbing for more than a year. It does seem to be a good way to get noticed, though. (Provided you make a really good impression while subbing, pick up contacts, etc. You could also have a business card made and leave it with people.)

I didn't see anything in your post about your education. Are you in school? I would think it would help your chances to have completed some kind of teaching program. Florida may have one that you can complete over the summer. It also helps if you are teaching a subject that is in demand at the time.

My guess from what you have said is that you will be able to find something in Florida. Hope it happens for you!

 

[Gatorman]

Reply

I graduated in May 2005 with a non-education degree (social sciences). I know that lots of schools need science and special ed teachers, though I always see a few postings for social science teachers at various schools. BTW, most of Florida's teacher training programs assist new teachers AFTER they are hired by a school district.
Moreover, one thing I've noticed on Florida's online applications is that substitute teaching doesn't even count under teaching experience. While I can see how substitutes may not be teachers because they don't grade papers, do lesson plans, etc., they are teachers from the start of school until the final bell rings. Maybe substitute teaching should be a seperate part of the online resume?

 

[Substitute]

Suggestions

Wow, I didn't know that Florida's teacher training programs were mostly for teachers after they are hired. It's different here. Even after going through a program and being certified, it's very hard to find a job, but I have heard from many others that subbing can be a way in.

I have seen online applications here with substitute teaching as a separate part, just as you said. I think substitute teaching is extremely relevant to your capability to do your job as a teacher, so it is a good idea to make sure you list it on your application. It is also something to highlight in resumes, cover letters, in interviews, etc. With subbing, you are constantly learning new things, refining your skills, etc. You could also check out different types of positions to see if you like them. (For example, you might find you like 12th graders and that there is a shortage of social science teachers there.)

When I first started to sub, I was like you, having minimal teaching experience. Subbing has really helped me to learn. Not only do you get to practice classroom management and giving lessons, but you also are able to see how other peoples' classrooms are set up. The thing about teaching is that it's OK to steal other peoples' ideas. Also, some of the principals who are hiring you may have been subs themselves at one point in time. You can use all of this to your advantage when looking for a position.

 

[h0kie]

Keep subbing

The schools here, Ohio, will (as a general rule) only hire you if you are a sub in the district. If they know you.

For the last 2 years I have subbed in 1 district. When I apply for those jobs (I am considered current staff, so I get to apply BEFORE the jobs are posted to the general public - few jobs get that far), I have gotten interviews. Two subs with more experience than me got the jobs though.

However, in districts where I don't sub, I have yet to get an interview. Subbing is considered "real" teaching experience, I believe. If it isn't, I wouldn't want to work for that district.

 

[Substitute]

Interview before subbing

I agree with 1dayatatime2 that you should keep subbing. I was able to get interviews in a great district I have not subbed for yet. One of the schools told me I came really close to getting the position. I did not get either position, but both schools suggested that I sub for their schools. They want to see what they are getting before buying the product, I guess. Can't blame them.

 

[MomtoBoys]

It's a Catch-22 in Texas

I also graduated in May, 2005 from a university with my BSIS in Early Childhood Education. I subbed for one year before I started college and have children of my own. I didn't get hired for the 05-06 year and I am currently subbing. I applied at numerous school districts surrounding my home and had only a handful of interviews. Each time I was rejected for "lack of experience". Seems that a lot of districts don't view substituting as experience. However, if you are NOT substituting, then you are not even noticed by a district because there are SO MANY applicants for each opening! So....you're darned if you do and darned if you don't. How in the world do you get the experience they want you to have if no one is willing to give you a break?

 

[love_to_learn]

Don't Worry

I was hired right out of college with no teaching experience. It was in VA, however if there is a high need for teachers in your area, you will be hired. As long as they need teachers, and you interview well you will probably have a good chance of being hired.