Can I become a substitute teacher in the state of Kentucky?

Question

I'm only 20 years old and after taking a year off school I will be starting my college courses. I've always wanted to become a teacher and I've done some tutoring and working with kids after school but I've never done anything extensive nor have I gotten paid for what I have done.

As much as I'd like to become a teacher, I'm worried I may be getting into a career field that I'm not suited for. I've tried to do some research on local school systems but I'm either not looking in the right places or I'm missing something because I can't seem to find any information to help me out.

Does anyone know, at my age and limited experience could I possibly substitute teach in the state of Kentucky?

Answer 1

No, you can't substitute teach.

The Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board issues a five year Certificate for Substitute Teaching to applicants who:

Hold a valid statement of eligibility for a Kentucky teaching certificate; or

Have previously held a Kentucky certificate for classroom teaching for which the completion of a 4-year teacher preparation program and a B.A. degree were required.

Some districts do participate in the Emergency Non-Certified School Personnel Pilot Program in response to the growing difficulties experienced by school districts in recruiting and retaining qualified substitute teachers. But even with this you must be 25.

Contact your local school districts and ask about serving as a teaching aide/assistant.  I did this in Fayette Co. for a semester. I was 17 working with first graders. But that was 20 yrs ago, and things have probably changed.