How to Become a Substitute Teacher in South Dakota: A Clear, Updated Guide
If you’re interested in becoming a substitute teacher in South Dakota, you’re stepping into a flexible, meaningful role that schools across the state rely on — from larger districts in Sioux Falls or Rapid City to small rural districts. Whether you’re exploring a new career path, re-entering the workforce, or seeking work that aligns with the school-year schedule, substitute teaching offers a chance to support students without committing to a full-time teaching career.
This guide walks you through what substitute teaching looks like in South Dakota, what the state requires (and what is left up to each district), and how a training program like Certified Sub can help you enter the classroom prepared and confident.
Why Substitute Teaching Appeals to Many in South Dakota
- Substitute teaching provides flexibility: you choose when and how often you work — ideal for people needing part-time or flexible schedules.
- Each assignment brings a new classroom, new students, and new routines — good for those who enjoy variety and change.
- There is consistent demand: many districts across South Dakota report difficulty filling substitute roles, making substitute teaching a high-need job.
- For many, substitute teaching offers a way to contribute meaningfully to the community without committing to a full-time teaching career.
What It Takes to Become a Substitute Teacher in South Dakota
In South Dakota, substitute teaching requirements are surprisingly minimal at the statewide level — but hiring qualifications and preferences vary significantly by district.
State-Level Requirements (Minimal)
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You must pass a criminal background check and fingerprinting (through state and federal background screening) before being eligible.
- Legal eligibility to work in the U.S. (proof of employment eligibility) is required, as with all public-school employment.
District-Level Qualifications (Varies Widely)
Because the state does not issue a universal substitute-teacher license or permit, each school district in South Dakota sets its own hiring criteria.
Common district practices include:
- Preference for candidates with at least a high school diploma or GED.
- Many districts prefer substitutes with some college credits, an associate’s degree, or a bachelor’s degree, especially when there is competition for substitute roles.
- Some districts may prioritize those with experience working with children (childcare, tutoring, prior classroom work), though no prior teaching experience is mandated statewide.
No State-Mandated Substitute Certification
Because there is no statewide substitute license or certification for substitutes, applying directly through a district is standard.
This gives districts flexibility: they may require additional screening, orientation, or even district-specific training. Some may value classroom experience or higher education credentials — others may focus mainly on availability and background clearance.
What the Application Process Typically Looks Like in South Dakota
Because district policies vary, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all path — but a typical substitute-teacher application process might look like this:
- Check your local district’s substitute requirements. Visit the district’s website (often under “Employment” or “Substitutes”) or contact Human Resources to learn what they expect.
- Gather necessary documents:
- High school diploma or GED (or college transcripts if required)
- Government-issued ID and eligibility to work documentation
- Resume (if requested) and any prior experience or references
- Apply to the district. Many districts require an online application.
- Complete fingerprinting and background check. The district will provide instructions — often through a local sheriff’s office or authorized fingerprinting center.
- Complete any required district orientation or virtual in-service / training packets. Some districts require substitutes (especially non-certified ones) to complete a short induction, safety training, or orientation before being approved.
- Get added to the district’s substitute list/roster. Once approved, you become eligible to be called for assignments when a regular teacher is absent.
Once you’re on the list, you can begin accepting substitute assignments. Many South Dakota substitutes work for multiple districts — especially if districts are geographically close — to maximize opportunities.
How a Program Like Certified Sub Can Help in South Dakota
Given that state requirements are minimal and many districts don’t require formal substitute-training, stepping into a classroom can feel like jumping in with little preparation — especially if you have no prior teaching experience. That’s where Certified Sub becomes valuable.
Certified Sub offers practical, classroom-ready training built specifically for substitutes. Through online, self-paced modules, substitutes can learn how to:
- set up classroom routines and manage transitions smoothly
- manage student behavior and maintain classroom order
- deliver lessons clearly — even when left only brief plans or teacher notes
- keep students engaged and on-task
- use fallback or “emergency” activities when lesson plans are minimal
- understand and follow classroom expectations and routines
Because many South Dakota districts do not provide (or require) much substitute-specific training, a program like Certified Sub can give you confidence, structure, and readiness before your first day — making you a stronger candidate and a more effective substitute teacher.
Your Next Step
If substitute teaching in South Dakota sounds like a good fit — the next step is to choose a district you’d like to work with, review its substitute-teacher requirements, gather any required documents, and apply. Also, consider enrolling in a training program like Certified Sub to give yourself a strong foundation before your first assignment.
Ready to get trained and classroom-ready?
Explore the full library of substitute teacher training courses here:
👉 https://www.certifiedsub.org/courses/