Seeking Alternate Pathways To Teaching? Substitute Teaching Can Help

The New Jersey Department of Education’s Alternative Teaching Licensure process has helped thousands of career changers and college graduates without traditional education training kickstart careers in teaching, with many serving initially as substitute teachers. While subbing, alternate route candidates have the unique opportunity to make professional connections, gain valuable classroom experience, and establish preferences for the grade-level they most enjoy.

This blog series features information on transitioning from substitute teaching into teaching careers, and spotlights the stories of alternate route candidates who have engaged in this process firsthand. Learn how each candidate leveraged their substitute teaching experience and alternate route training to develop their teaching technique, secure job interviews, and ultimately support their education career ambitions.

Meet Leah Iannacone, a Rutgers Alternate Route candidate who entered our program as a substitute teacher. She's been using her experience as a sub to get her foot in the door for competitive teaching jobs.

Read more of her story.

Meet Matthew DeFeo, a Rutgers Alternate Route candidate who's leveraged his subbing experience to build relationships with teachers and school administrators, and get first access to job openings at his dream school

Read more of his story.

Yes, Substitute Teachers DO Transition Into FT Teaching Jobs—Here’s How [Feature Interview]

We sat down with Source4Teachers' New Jersey Recruiter, Eric Cruz, to set the record straight and dispel the most common myths that hinder substitute teachers from gaining full time employment. 

Read full feature.