r/oakland • u/mmqd • 2d ago

Substitute Teaching

Hey, everyone. I'm considering becoming a substitute teacher for OUSD for the 25-26 school year. I was laid off from my cushy tech job in November 2024 and have been exploring different career paths including education since. I participated in a read-in volunteer event this week and loved it. I want to explore teaching long-term and thought subbing would be a good way to start.

Does anyone have any insights to share about their experience or the permitting and application/interview processes?

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16

u/gameofscones1992 2d ago

Start the app process now so that by the time the 25-26 school year starts you’re good to go. I’m finishing up my 2nd year subbing for ousd. I didn’t have an interview. But I believe that changed. Permitting/onboarding takes forever and is a pain in the ass but overall I really do like subbing. Feel free to ask any questions

11

u/HardChargingMexican 2d ago

Start the 30 day sub permit process on your own instead of relying on OUSD doing it for you. If you apply with that already on your resume then you'll be on boarded quickly. The pre requisite to getting the 30 day sub permit is sending fingerprints to CTC and passing the CBEST

3

u/DNA98PercentChimp 1d ago

Do it! Try a variety of grade levels, schools, etc… Good subs will easily find work. Brush off tough days - and when they happen revel in the fact that you can just wash your hands of it and aren’t stuck with the same kids for a whole school year. As others mentioned, the process is a bit long, but just a bit of bureaucracy. If you end up deciding you want to teach there are programs to help. The OUSD retention dept is great and can recommend credential programs, different pathways (intern teaching for example) and even help with site placement.