Arizona schools have a consistent need for qualified individuals to fill temporary teaching vacancies, making the role of a substitute teacher a valuable entry point into the education system. The state’s growing student population and the need for classroom coverage create a steady demand for professionals who can maintain continuity in learning. Understanding the specific educational and procedural requirements set by the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) is the first step toward securing this flexible position. This guide will clarify the necessary qualifications and detail the application process.
Minimum Educational Prerequisites
The academic requirements for substitute teaching vary based on the type of certificate you intend to pursue in Arizona. Individuals seeking the Standard Substitute Certificate must possess a Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution in any field of study. An alternative pathway exists for those who do not hold a four-year degree. The Emergency Substitute Certificate requires applicants to provide proof of a high school diploma, a General Education Diploma (GED), or an Associate degree. Meeting these minimum educational standards is the first step before moving on to the state’s official certification process.
Understanding Arizona Substitute Teaching Certificates
The Arizona Department of Education issues two types of certificates for substitutes, each with distinct requirements and limitations. Selecting the appropriate certificate depends on your educational background and intended scope of work. Both pathways require a formal application and fee submission to the ADE.
Emergency Substitute Certificate
The Emergency Substitute Certificate is designed to help districts fill immediate staffing needs and has the lowest educational threshold, requiring only a high school diploma or GED. This certificate is valid for two years and expires on July 1st of the expiration year. It is limited in scope, issued only at the request of a district or charter school superintendent. This certificate restricts the holder to substitute teaching only within the district that requested the certificate.
Standard Substitute Certificate
The Standard Substitute Certificate provides a flexible and long-term credential for those who hold a Bachelor’s degree in any subject. This certificate is valid for six years and is renewable, allowing for sustained employment without frequent reapplication. Holders of the Standard Certificate are not limited to a single school district and can substitute across the state. Recent changes allow substitutes to teach in the same assignment for as long as needed until a contract teacher is hired.
The Application and Fingerprint Clearance Process
Obtaining state certification requires navigating procedures with both the Arizona Department of Education and the Department of Public Safety (DPS). Applicants must use the ADE’s online portal to submit a completed application for certification and pay the non-refundable $60 fee. Official transcripts documenting your degree or high school completion must be submitted directly to the ADE by the issuing institution.
The Identity Verified Prints (IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card is a mandatory requirement for all school employees in Arizona, confirming you have passed a thorough state and federal criminal background check. It must be secured separately through the DPS. You must apply for the IVP card online through the DPS website and pay the $67 application fee.
After the online application, you must schedule an in-person appointment for digital fingerprinting. The processing time for the IVP card can take three to five weeks, so it is advisable to begin this process immediately. A copy of your valid IVP card must be submitted to the ADE as part of your application packet.
Securing Employment with an Arizona District
Earning the state substitute certificate or the IVP card grants you the permission to work, but it does not guarantee a job. The next step involves applying directly to specific school districts or charter school networks throughout the state. Districts handle their own hiring, payroll, and scheduling for substitute teachers.
Each district may impose additional requirements beyond the state’s certification, such as a local orientation, district-specific training modules, or a pre-hire interview. Districts often use an internal online system to manage the daily placement of substitutes into classrooms. Completing the local onboarding process is necessary before you can begin accepting assignments and receiving paychecks.
Daily Life and Compensation for Substitutes
The daily work of a substitute teacher centers on maintaining an orderly and productive learning environment according to the regular teacher’s plans. Typical duties involve following pre-written lesson plans, supervising students during class and transitions, and implementing classroom management strategies. The role offers flexibility, as substitutes can generally choose which days, grade levels, and schools they wish to work in.
Compensation for substitute teachers in Arizona is typically paid on a daily rate, which can vary significantly between districts and whether the assignment is long-term or short-term. Daily rates generally fall in the range of $120 to $180, though some long-term or specialized assignments may offer more. The average annual pay for a certified substitute teacher in Arizona is approximately $39,367, reflecting the flexible nature of the work.