A substitute teaching job can be a good short-term option for a 20-something looking for work, especially when that new college grad is interested in becoming a teacher. It's a way to get his or her feet wet - albeit under fairly stressful conditions - and see firsthand what it's like to rule a classroom.
Different states have dramatically different regulations regarding substitute teachers. In Illinois, for example, one needs a bachelor's degree, a $30 fee and a form. Washington requires a bachelor's degree and completion of a teacher preparation course of study. But Missouri requires just 60 units of community college or university credit. And California requires both a bachelor's degree and an exam known as the CBEST. So the first step, if your young adult is interested in pursuing this course, is for him to visit his state department of education's website and check out the rules for his particular state.
