How a replacement teacher job description differs from a substitute.

A replacement teacher job description details the responsibilities of an employee who works when a teacher is absent. While substitute teachers and replacement teachers are both temporary instructors, replacement teachers often maintain a longer-term presence in the classroom—this often comes with additional duties. 

Common details in a replacement teacher job description. 

• Titles vary by district—long-term substitute teacher, interim teacher, or leave replacement teacher. 

• Duties often involve developing and teaching lesson plans, classroom management, and grading for an extended time. 

• Many states require teaching certification, subject expertise, or prior substitute teaching experience. 

What is a replacement teacher?

Replacement teachers are temporary instructors who cover for regular teachers on extended leave. From maternity leave to sabbatical, regular teachers may need to take long periods off for many reasons. They offer continuity in the classroom, ensuring the teacher’s absence doesn’t disrupt students’ learning. 

A replacement teacher steps in to execute lesson plans and maintain the classroom during the regular teacher’s absence. They manage student behavior, complete administrative tasks, and keep the classroom running smoothly until the regular teacher returns. This could be anywhere from a few weeks to the entire academic year. 

Substitute vs. replacement teacher.

While short term substitute teachers have similar tasks, there are some differences when you work longer term to cover a single teacher. Substitute teachers often have varying schedules, moving from different grade levels or subjects daily. Replacement teachers cover one class for prolonged periods and often grade assignments. 

Replacement teachers also help settle students into this new routine. With the teacher’s prolonged absence, it’s their job to provide a smooth transition. They build rapport with students and establish consistency to maintain a productive learning environment. They also will build relationships with faculty and staff. 

Job title.

A replacement teacher’s job title can vary depending on the district. Recognizing different job titles can help you keep an eye out for these opportunities. Here are some other potential job titles you may come across: 

• Long-term substitute teacher 
• Interim teacher 
• Leave replacement teacher 

Organizational reporting.

The replacement teacher job description should include essential reporting information, such as who will be your supervisor. Replacement teachers often report to a human resources staff member, department faculty chair, or the school principal. 

Objectives.

You’ll find vital information on your assignment length and position goals. The objectives section may also include the grade and subject you’ll teach as well as the specific student group you’ll support. 

Qualifications.

The qualifications section entails the minimum state requirements for employment. It also features the job’s specific details and required and preferred qualifications. Here are some examples contained in a potential replacement teacher job description: 

• 18 years or older (some districts prefer candidates who are 21+) 
• A current substitute teacher permit (if your state requires it) 
• A high school diploma or equivalent (some districts require a bachelor’s degree or higher) 
• Effective communication skills 
• English fluency 
• Ability to follow directions and support students’ needs 
• General competency in academic subjects 
• Flexibility and problem-solving skills 
• Excellent organizational and time management skills 
• A basic understanding of child development 
• The ability to maintain confidentiality 
• Basic computer knowledge 

Special requirements.

A replacement teacher job description may include special requirements. Requirements can vary drastically depending on the district and state expectations. 

Some school districts require specific credentials or subject knowledge. Others may hire replacement teachers based on their substitute teaching experience and classroom management skills. Either way, your ability to adapt and understand what students need can make you successful in this role. 

Specific key responsibilities. 

Replacement substitute teachers have similar responsibilities as short-term substitute teachers, varying from school to school. Here are some common ones: 

• Reporting to the administrative office at the beginning and end of the day 
• Dressing appropriately and following professional conduct 
• Executing lesson plans 
• Taking attendance and reporting absent students following the school procedures 
• Practicing classroom management skills and maintaining a safe, efficient learning environment 
• Engaging and supporting students’ needs accordingly 
• Assigning and collecting homework 
• Following district safety and disciplinary protocols 

Because of your long-term position, you might be more involved in developing and adapting lesson plans. Long-term substitutes may also be responsible for grading assignments. 

A replacement teacher’s responsibilities can also go beyond teaching. With time, you’ll become deeply integrated into the school community and foster trust with students. You may take on additional tasks, like attending parent-teacher conferences or staff meetings. 

How to become a replacement teacher.

There are a few routes to become a replacement teacher. Applying for the role through your district website or on job boards is most typical. 

Another common way to become a replacement teacher is by building rapport as a short-term substitute teacher in your district. The more you substitute teach in a school, the higher your chances of being noticed. Building a strong reputation within your district can position you as the top choice when long-term opportunities arise. 

Grow as a Kelly Education substitute teacher.

Kelly Education is the largest provider of substitute teachers to districts across the country. When you work with Kelly Education, we provide training before you ever enter the classroom. Also, we have an entire library of helpful articles for substitute teachers. To get started, check these out: 

• Classroom management for substitute teachers 
• What not to do as a substitute teacher 
• Complete guide to becoming a substitute teacher 

If you are interested in substitute teaching, fill out our brief interest form, and one of our recruiters will contact you to answer your questions. We’ll also share more about opportunities to become a substitute teacher or support staff with one of our school district partners. 

I’m interested