In Oklahoma, there were over 6,330 substitute teachers in 2019, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. To find out how you can fill one of these positions, we'll look at the requirements for substitute teachers below.
Requirements for Substitute Teachers in Oklahoma
| Average Salary for Substitute Teachers Oklahoma (2019)* | $23,350 |
| Required Degree | High School Diploma |
| Required Field | N/A |
| Testing Requirements | Optional: *OGET *OPTE PK-8 or 6-12 *OSAT Subject Area exam |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Step 1: Complete Education
Each school district sets up the requirements for its substitute teachers, and there is no current state certification for substitute teachers. For this reason, you'll find that some of the districts ask for different education levels. The common requirement you'll see is a high school diploma or its equivalent. Some districts may require a bachelor's degree, while other job postings will offer better pay for those with a bachelor's degree. While there is no state certification for substitute teachers, you can get the Highly Qualified credential as a substitute teacher, which requires a bachelor's degree and full teacher certification.
Step 2: Complete Required Exams (Optional)
If you'd like to get that Highly Qualified credential, you'll need full teacher licensure. This means you'll need to sit for the Certification Examinations for Oklahoma Educators (CEOE) exams. The Oklahoma General Education Test (OGET) is typically the first exam taken. This exam tests you on math, reading, and writing knowledge. You must score a minimum of 240 on this 100-question exam.
The Oklahoma Professional Teaching Examination (OPTE) exam will test you on your teaching education and knowledge. There are two exams that can be taken: the PK-8 and the 6-12 grades. Both exams are made up of 75 multiple-choice questions and an additional three constructed-response questions. Similar to most of the OCEC exams, you must earn no less than 240 on this exam. The final exam for certification is the Oklahoma Subject Area Test (OSAT), which covers your endorsement subject area. Each of these exams has its own passing score and structure.
Step 3: Obtain Background Checks
No matter the district, you'll need to have a background check completed by the FBI and the OSBI (Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation). The two background checks cost $53.94 total. You must first be fingerprinted at an approved location, which is a Department of Education site or a law enforcement agency. Any school district you apply to can obtain a report from these background checks. So long as you are an active substitute for one day each school year, your criminal report will carry over to the next year.
Certification Resources for Substitute Teachers in Oklahoma
Depending on the subject you want to be certified in, you will find yourself studying for some CEOE exams. Below, we've included the first resource to help guide you during your studies.
- OGET Oklahoma General Education Test (CEOE) (074): Practice & Study Guide
