Substitute Teacher Resume Examples

Crafting the perfect resume for a substitute teacher job can be tricky. You find yourself juggling various schools, subjects, and grade levels, which makes a one-size-fits-all resume seem impossible. Every assignment is different, and showcasing your adaptability while standing out to hiring managers can feel daunting. But don't fret; you've got what it takes to be the A+ candidate schools need. From highlighting classroom management skills to detailing diverse teaching experiences, we are here to help you navigate this process smoothly. A few tweaks can transform your resume into a powerful job-winning tool.

Selecting the right resume template is crucial. A well-structured template not only highlights your qualifications but also makes your resume easy to read and visually appealing. The right layout can make all the difference, putting you a step ahead of the competition.

We have over 700 resume examples to help you create a standout resume. Dive in and unlock your full teaching potential!

What to focus on when writing your substitute teacher resume

A substitute teacher resume should highlight your ability to adapt quickly, manage classrooms effectively, and engage students in meaningful lessons. It's essential to show your educational background, any specific certifications, and prior teaching experience. Showcase your communication skills, reliability, and ability to handle various subjects and grade levels seamlessly. Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for fostering a positive learning environment.

To boost its impact, include:

• Specific examples of classroom management success.
• Instances where you've received positive feedback from students or staff.
• Details of any special training or professional development.
• Quantifiable outcomes, like improved student performance or retention rates.

Must have information on your substitute teacher resume

When crafting a substitute teacher resume, there are a few key sections that you absolutely need to include to make sure you stand out.

• Contact Information
• Professional Summary
• Education
• Teaching Experience
• Skills
• Certifications or Licenses

Additional sections such as Professional Development, Volunteer Experience, and References can further strengthen your resume. These can offer more insights into your qualifications and dedication to teaching.

Which resume format to choose

When creating a resume for a substitute teacher position, the best format to use is the reverse-chronological resume format. This format highlights your recent experience and qualifications, making it easier for hiring managers to see your most relevant work upfront. Opt for modern fonts like Rubik and Montserrat instead of traditional ones like Arial and Times New Roman. Always save your resume as a PDF to ensure that its formatting remains consistent across different devices and software. Standard margins of 1 inch on all sides are ideal to keep your resume neat and readable. Clear section headings using larger, bolded text help Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) scan your resume more effectively.

Your resume sections should include: Contact Information, Summary, Experience, Education, Skills, and Certifications. Make sure each section is well-organized and provides the necessary details related to your teaching experience and qualifications. Resume Mentor's free resume builder can handle all of this and more, ensuring your document is polished and ATS-friendly.

How to write a quantifiable resume experience section

Writing your resume experience section as a substitute teacher can be straightforward if you understand the key elements that make it effective. Your resume should have a clear, chronological order, starting from your most recent job and working backward. Ideally, go back around 10 years in your experience section, including only the job titles relevant to teaching or education.

Tailoring your resume for each job application is crucial. Use action words to highlight your impact, such as "led," "created," or "improved." Focus on accomplishments rather than duties. For instance, instead of saying you "taught math," say you "improved student math scores by 15%." This makes your resume more engaging and highlights your positive impact.

Here’s an example of how not to write your resume experience section:

The above example is ineffective because it focuses on duties without providing any context or showing impact. There are no specific achievements or measurable outcomes.

Now, here’s a stronger example:

This example shines because it highlights achievements with numerical evidence, showing the tangible impact of your work. The focus on accomplishments rather than responsibilities makes it more compelling. It’s clear, concise, and paints a vivid picture of your successes.

By presenting your experience this way, you make it easier for potential employers to see your value and fit for the teaching role.

Substitute teacher resume experience examples

Welcome to the hub where stellar substitute teaching resumes are crafted! Let's take your resume from "meh" to "marvelous"—one section at a time!

Achievement-focused

Highlight your accomplishments and quantifiable successes to show you're not just a substitute teacher; you're a rockstar filling in the gaps.

Skills-focused

Use this section to underscore the specific skills that make you an invaluable asset in the classroom.

Responsibility-focused

Showcase your ability to handle the responsibilities that come with being a reliable substitute teacher.

Project-focused

Discuss specific projects you led or were a part of to demonstrate your initiative and leadership.

Result-focused

This section should highlight tangible outcomes of your efforts as a substitute teacher.

Industry-Specific Focus

Focus on your deep understanding of the education sector and how you can adapt to different teaching environments.

Problem-Solving focused

Demonstrate your ability to think on your feet and solve problems as they arise in the classroom.

Innovation-focused

Show that you're not just filling in but bringing fresh ideas to the table.

Leadership-focused

Highlight your leadership qualities and experiences that demonstrate your capability to take charge.

Customer-focused

Show your commitment to serving the students, parents, and school community.

Growth-focused

Emphasize how you've contributed to the growth and development of your students.

Efficiency-focused

Showcase your ability to work efficiently, managing your time and resources well.

Technology-focused

Demonstrate your proficiency with educational technology, an increasingly essential skill.

Collaboration-focused

Illustrate how well you collaborate with colleagues, students, and parents to achieve educational goals.

Training and Development focused

Describe your commitment to your own professional development and how you assist in training others.

Write your substitute teacher resume summary section

When writing your resume summary as a substitute teacher, be clear and concise. Highlight your experience, key skills, and what makes you a valuable asset to a school. Avoid using jargon or filler words. Be straightforward and ensure your achievements and capabilities stand out.

To describe yourself best in a resume summary, use action words and impressive metrics when possible. Focus on your experience and skills that are relevant to the role of a substitute teacher. Point out attributes that set you apart, like your adaptability, classroom management skills, or dedication to student success.

The difference between a summary and a resume objective is subtle but important. A resume summary gives a brief overview of your qualifications and experience. A resume objective focuses on your career goals and what you aim to achieve in the position. A resume profile is similar to a summary but is often more detailed. A summary of qualifications lists your top skills and accomplishments relevant to the job.

This resume summary example is not effective. It uses vague language and lacks specific details. Saying you are "dedicated and hardworking" is generic and doesn't stand out. The statement "I love working with kids" is commendable but lacks context and impact. The phrase "different schools" doesn't give a clear picture of your experience. Finally, "Looking for a chance to use my skills" does not specify what skills and how they benefit the school.

This resume summary example is excellent. It clearly states your experience, which is crucial for a substitute teacher. It mentions specific skills like classroom management and lesson planning. The phrase "engaging students" highlights your ability to maintain student interest. The mention of "improved student participation by 15%" provides a measurable achievement, making your resume more compelling. The overall tone is confident and professional.

Listing your substitute teacher skills on your resume

When writing a substitute teacher resume, you should carefully highlight your skills. Skills can be a standalone section, but they can also be incorporated into your experience and summary sections.

Consider your strengths and focus on showcasing your soft skills like communication and adaptability. Hard skills, on the other hand, are technical abilities and knowledge that are specific to teaching. These can include managing classroom technology or understanding specific educational software.

Skills and strengths should act as keywords on your resume. Recruiters scan for these words to find the best matches for their job descriptions. Incorporating these keywords can make your resume stand out from the rest.

This skills section is effective because it lists key competencies directly related to the role of a substitute teacher, making it easy for employers to identify your qualifications. Each listed skill is relevant to teaching and demonstrates a range of capabilities, ensuring a well-rounded portrayal of your expertise.

Best hard skills to feature on your substitute teacher resume

Hard skills for substitute teachers should clearly communicate your ability to manage classrooms and deliver educational content effectively.

Best soft skills to feature on your substitute teacher resume

Soft skills for substitute teachers should communicate your ability to interact positively with students and staff, ensuring a conducive learning environment.

How to include your education on your resume

The education section is an important part of your resume, especially when applying for a substitute teacher position. This section should be tailored to the job, meaning any irrelevant education shouldn’t be included. Listing your education correctly can set you apart from other candidates.

When including GPA on your resume, make sure it is impressive (typically above 3.5). Cum laude honors should be listed under your degree. To list a degree on your resume, start with the degree name followed by the institution, location, and completion date.

Education, well-written:

Explanation: This example is good because it includes relevant education, honors, and a strong GPA. It’s concise and focused on what is important for a substitute teacher role.

Education, poorly written:

Explanation: This example is bad because it includes an irrelevant degree, a low GPA (which is hidden, but still indicates a lack of strong academic performance), and information that doesn't support the substitute teacher role.

How to include substitute teacher certificates on your resume

Including a certificates section is crucial for a substitute teacher resume. Certificates validate your qualifications and can set you apart from other candidates. Position your certificates prominently, either in the header or as a separate section. List the name of the certificate first. Include the date when you received it. Add the issuing organization to show its credibility.

A good example of a certificates section on a substitute teacher resume clearly presents relevant qualifications. For instance, Certificates: Teaching Certification - State Board of Education, 2020; CPR and First Aid Certification - American Red Cross, 2019. This section works well because it showcases the essential certificates that a substitute teacher needs. Both the Teaching Certification and CPR and First Aid Certification are directly applicable to teaching and ensuring student safety.

Extra sections to include in your substitute teacher resume

Crafting a standout resume for a substitute teacher can be a game-changer in landing the job you want. It's important to feature key sections that highlight your unique qualifications, interests, and experiences.

• Language section—Showcase your ability to communicate in multiple languages to demonstrate versatility and reach in diverse classrooms. Convey your proficiency in languages, such as Spanish or Mandarin, to stand out.

• Hobbies and interests section—Include activities like reading educational books or participating in local sports to show your well-rounded personality. Highlight involvement in hobbies that could enrich the classroom environment, like playing a musical instrument.

• Volunteer work section—Display your commitment to community service, such as tutoring underprivileged students or organizing educational events. Provide specific examples to show your active dedication to education outside a formal setting.

• Books section—List educational or pedagogical books you’ve read, such as "Educated" by Tara Westover or "Teach Like a Champion" by Doug Lemov. Demonstrate your continuous professional development and passion for education.

Pair your substitute teacher resume with a cover letter

A cover letter is a brief document that you send with your resume when applying for a job. It introduces who you are and highlights why you are a good fit for the position. A well-crafted cover letter can help you stand out by giving you the chance to explain in your own words why you would be an asset to the team.

For a substitute teacher, your cover letter should emphasize your teaching credentials, your ability to manage different subjects, and your flexibility. Mention your education, such as a degree in education or a related field, and any certifications you hold. Highlight your experience in classrooms, managing students, and adapting to various school environments. Make it clear that you are committed to providing a stable and effective learning environment for students, even on short notice.

Ready to get started? Use Resume Mentor's cover letter builder to craft your own personalized cover letter today. It's easy to use and lets you export your cover letter as a PDF, ensuring that your content and formatting stay intact.