You will often encounter bad attitudes and behaviors among children (particularly teens). A teacher for whom you are subbing may leave an unclear lesson plan, or may have put some required materials in a place where you can’t find it. In this case, know that you will be held accountable for any mistakes.

If a student complains about you – which could be about something as simple as statement taken out of context, a part of a lesson they didn’t like, or a bald-faced lie – this will go into your file as a mark against you. A teacher can have you excluded from a classroom, a school or a district for any reason, and you may never know why. It’s unlikely that the union will step in to defend you, since substitutes are typically not members of the union.

The worst part is that you can be an exemplary substitute, very popular with kids, but it won’t matter if you make a mistake or two. You will never be recognized for the great job you do, but anything you do wrong – or are even perceived to have done wrong – will be held over your head.

That’s the bad news.

There are some upsides to substitute teaching, especially if you enjoy the idea of classroom teaching, but don’t want to be tied down to a contract, or have to carry out all of the responsibilities of a regular classroom teacher. There are also ways to avoid the above pitfalls that can protect your substitute teacher resume.

Depending on the district, getting on as a substitute teacher is fairly simple, and most districts don’t even require an interview. You simply fill out the standard job application, indicate which (A) which subjects you are endorsed in, (B) which subjects you have knowledge of and (C) which subjects you’d be willing to try. You then present your certificate to the district office, and you’re generally placed on the sub list within a week.

Once you’re on the list, you will be called (nowadays, by an automated system) when your services are needed. You are not obligated to take any job. You can also call into the system, and shop for jobs ahead of time.

A good substitute teaching tip is to get on with several districts. That way, you’ll be able to work every day, if you so choose.

You are certainly allowed to sub in any subject, but if you cover a class that is out of your subject area, you do so at your own risk. The best way to avoid the pitfalls outlined above is to stick with subjects in which you are endorsed and/or have competence, even if it means fewer jobs to choose from.