How to become a substitute teacher in South Carolina

If you’re looking for flexible, meaningful work in education? Start by becoming a substitute teacher!

Whether you’re exploring a career in teaching or want a job that fits around your schedule, substitute teaching offers a low barrier to entry and consistent work opportunities.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to become a substitute teacher in South Carolina with Scoot Education, from submitting your application to meeting state and district requirements.

Requirements for South Carolina substitute teachers

Schools in South Carolina offer an accessible path into substitute teaching. Here’s what you’ll need to become a substitute teacher in South Carolina:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or higher
• Pass a criminal background check
• Obtain TB clearance

Note on education requirements: Some districts in South Carolina require a bachelor’s degree or 60+ college credit hours. But with Scoot, you’ll only need a high school diploma.

Step 1: Submit your application to Scoot

Start by applying online with Scoot Education. This is your first step to access a network of schools looking for reliable substitute educators.

When you apply, be prepared to share:

• Your resume – or just answer our work history questionnaire
• Transcripts, conferred degrees, or teaching credentials
• Experience working with students (tutoring, camps, childcare, etc.)

[Apply now]

Step 2: Complete phone screen and interview

If your application is a good fit, a Scoot Education Consultant will schedule a brief phone call followed by an interview.

During this stage, expect to share:

• Why you want to substitute teach
• Examples of your classroom management skills or experience teaching/working with students
• Your school preferences, availability, and location

Your answers help us match you with the right opportunities. If you ever want to explore new grade levels or subjects down the road, just let us know.

Step 3: Sign your offer letter!

Yay! After a successful interview, you’ll receive an offer letter to join Scoot as a substitute educator.

Once you sign, you’ll start onboarding with us. This is where you’ll complete background checks, work references, and mandatory training.

Step 4: Pass a background check

South Carolina law requires substitute teachers to pass a state and federal background check prior to working in schools.

With Scoot, you’ll complete this step online via Checkr, a background screening platform.

Step 5: Provide a negative TB result

Under South Carolina law, all school employees are required to provide proof of a negative TB test within the past 12 months.

If you’ve had a negative TB test within the past 12 months, you don’t need a new test.

There are 3 ways to clear this requirement:

1. (Quickest and easiest method) TB Risk Assessment form: Your healthcare provider will sign off on this. Then you’ll upload the form to us.
2. Negative TB Skin Test (PPD): You’ll schedule an appointment to complete the skin test. You’ll upload the results to us.
3. Chest X-ray: Only done if you have positive TB test result. The x-ray confirms you do not have active TB, which clears you to work.

Scoot reimburses you for this step! We reimburse up to $35 for a completed Risk Assessment and $55 for a TB Skin Test.

Step 6: Submit official documents

To wrap up onboarding, you’ll submit the following:

• Three references (including at least one supervisor) – We’ll reach out by email, phone, or text to verify your work history

• Payroll information – So you can start getting paid right away
• Scoot profile photo – A professional headshot helps our partner schools recognize you and can lead to more work opportunities
• I-9 Form – Standard employment eligibility verification form required by all U.S. employers
• Academic transcripts – To confirm the level of education you have received

Step 7: Complete mandatory training

Lastly, you’ll complete paid mandatory trainings covering health and safety, workplace violence, creating inclusive classrooms, and mandated reporting. 

Once our compliance team verifies your completion, you’re officially ready to start accepting assignments. Your dedicated consultant will match you with placements that suit your schedule, preferences, and skills.

Ready to substitute teach in South Carolina?

Scoot Education makes it easy to start subbing in South Carolina! From applying to stepping foot in the classroom, our team supports you through every step.

Beyond the regular school day, we also partner with expanded learning and after-school programs. So, if you’re looking for flexible work after school hours, Scoot will help you find opportunities that match your schedule and skillset.

Here’s why subbing with Scoot rocks:

• Free and quick online background check
• Full reimbursement for TB test fees
• Competitive pay (sometimes better than working directly for districts)
• Dedicated 1:1 support: Our consultants will match you with best-fit roles and provide expert coaching tips (many of us were former teachers!)
• Professional development resources: Get training in behavior management, special education, and trauma-informed teaching (check out our Growth Hub learning platform)

Apply now