Substitute Teacher Requirements

Substitute Teachers
Effective April 1, 2009

Please read all the requirements to ensure that your substitute teacher application is processed in the most efficient manner.

**NOTE: To be fingerprinted for a criminal background check you MUST register and pay online at www.cogentid.com/alabama or by phone at (866)989-9316. Cogent Systems WILL NOT fingerprint anyone who has not registered online or by phone (no exceptions). See the website for “Print Locations and Hours” along with other important information. Valid identification is required.

General Information

1. Applicants for substitute teaching positions only must have two years post secondary class work (48 credit hours) from College, Junior College, Vocational or Technical Schools
   
   
2. All others (Aides, CNP, Clerical, Bus Drivers) must be at least 21 years of age and have high school diploma or equivalent.
   
   
3. The length of time required for processing varies with each person. Typically 4 to 12 weeks.
   
   
4. All new substitutes must complete substitute orientation prior to substituting for Shelby County Schools
   
   
5. All substitutes need to work three days each semester in order to maintain an active status.



6. Substitute positions can be terminated at any time.
   
   

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Prior to submitting your application to this office, please ensure ALL forms in the packet ( including all Tax Forms) are completed, signed and dated. All paperwork and documents must be submitted in order for the application to be processed.

1. A copy of documents listed below must be included with your packet.
   • Driver’s license
   • Social Security Card
   • Negative Tuberculosis test or Chest X-ray results (must not be over 2 years old)
   • Proof of Education (either high school diploma or GED or unofficial college transcripts). Proof of Education is required for all positions except custodians.
   • Proof of a State Department of Education Background Clearance or proof the fingerprint process has been started. You cannot go to work until the background check has been completed by the State Department.
2. Applicants who are applying for a Substitute Teacher’s License for the first time must include a $30.00 Money Order or Cashier’s Check payable to the “State Dept. of Education”. We cannot accept Money Orders that are within 30 day of the expiration date. The State Department prefers money orders to be purchased from the United States Postal Service. Contact Fran Harrison at (205) 682-7120 for additional assistance.
   

Any applicant holding a VALID Alabama Teaching Certificate, does not need to apply for a Substitute Teacher’s License.