If you’re looking for a flexible career in education, becoming a substitute teacher in Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) can be an excellent opportunity. Whether you’re a college student, recent graduate, retired professional, or someone considering a future in teaching, substitute teaching offers valuable classroom experience while allowing you to choose your own work schedule.
Here’s everything you need to know about becoming a substitute teacher in Broward County, including the minimum qualifications, pay, application process, and what to expect on the job.
What Are the Requirements to Become a Substitute Teacher in Broward County?
Broward County Public Schools partners with Kelly Education to recruit and manage substitute teachers throughout the district.
To qualify as a daily substitute teacher, applicants must generally meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Complete a minimum of 60 semester college credit hours from an accredited college or university.
- Be legally authorized to work in the United States.
- Successfully complete a criminal background check and fingerprinting process.
A bachelor’s degree is not required for many daily substitute teaching positions, although it may qualify applicants for higher-paying long-term assignments.
Documents You’ll Need
Applicants should be prepared to provide several documents during the hiring process, including:
- Official college transcripts showing at least 60 completed semester credit hours.
- Professional reference letters, including one from a recent employer if applicable.
- Government-issued identification.
- Employment eligibility documentation required for hiring.
Having these documents ready can help speed up the onboarding process.
Is Training Required?
Many substitute teachers are encouraged—or may be required depending on their qualifications—to complete the STEDI SubSkills Online Training Course.
The training covers important topics such as:
- Classroom management techniques
- Effective teaching strategies
- Student engagement
- Special education awareness
- Professional responsibilities
- School safety procedures
Completing the course can help new substitutes feel more confident before entering the classroom.
How Much Do Broward County Substitute Teachers Get Paid?
Pay varies depending on the type of assignment and the substitute’s educational background.
Current hourly rates generally include:
- Daily substitute teacher: Approximately $15.00 per hour
- Long-term substitute (60 college credits): Approximately $20.00 per hour
- Long-term substitute (Bachelor’s degree or higher): Approximately $32 to $33 per hour, depending on the assignment
Long-term substitute positions typically involve covering the same classroom for an extended period and often come with additional instructional responsibilities.
Can You Choose When and Where You Work?
One of the biggest advantages of substitute teaching is schedule flexibility.
Substitute teachers can typically:
- Select the days they want to work.
- Choose preferred schools.
- Accept assignments at elementary, middle, or high schools.
- Decide whether to accept short-term or long-term opportunities.
Assignments are based on teacher absences, so work availability may vary throughout the school year.
Is Substitute Teaching a Good Career Move?
For many people, substitute teaching serves as an excellent entry point into education.
Benefits include:
- Flexible scheduling.
- Valuable classroom experience.
- Opportunities to network with school administrators.
- Exposure to different grade levels and subjects.
- A pathway toward becoming a full-time certified teacher.
Many educators begin their careers as substitute teachers before earning their Florida teaching certification.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply through Kelly Education, the staffing partner for Broward County Public Schools. The application process generally includes submitting transcripts, completing background screening requirements, attending onboarding, and finishing any required training before becoming eligible for classroom assignments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a teaching certificate to become a substitute teacher in Broward County?
No. Daily substitute teachers are generally not required to hold a Florida teaching certificate, although they must meet the district’s minimum education requirements.
Do you need a bachelor’s degree?
Not necessarily. Applicants with at least 60 semester college credit hours may qualify for many substitute teaching positions.
Can substitute teachers work full-time?
Some substitutes work nearly every school day by accepting frequent assignments or long-term classroom placements, although schedules are generally flexible.
Is substitute teaching flexible?
Yes. Substitute teachers can often decide which assignments they accept, allowing them to build a schedule that fits their availability.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a substitute teacher in Broward County Public Schools offers an excellent opportunity for individuals who enjoy working with students while maintaining a flexible work schedule. With relatively accessible entry requirements, competitive hourly pay for long-term assignments, and the ability to gain valuable classroom experience, substitute teaching can be both a rewarding part-time job and a stepping stone toward a long-term career in education.
Whether you’re exploring a future in teaching or simply looking for meaningful and flexible employment, Broward County’s substitute teacher program provides an accessible path into one of Florida’s largest public school districts.
