Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the qualifications to become a substitute?
- How do I get paid for an assignment?
- How will I notify the districts of my certification?
- Will I need to be fingerprinted?
- How long does it take to become approved?
- How do I reapply for next year?
- Do you handle substitutes for summer school?
What are the qualifications to become a substitute?
To book teaching positions, Frontline Absence Management will start with certified substitutes first and then work down the list to people with a four-year degree or 120 college credits. To book teaching assistant and teacher aide positions, the system will start by calling anyone with a high school diploma/GED or higher.
How do I get paid for an assignment?
As a substitute, you are an employee of the school district for assignments in that district. You will need to fill out tax papers when you go to the district for the first time. The districts will require two forms of identification for the I-9 form; plan to bring your driver's license and social security card. Any forms that you have filled out for your application are for WSWHE BOCES, and we will pay you for any assignments that you fill for WSWHE BOCES. Your first paycheck from each school district may take 3-4 weeks to arrive, depending on each district's payroll cycle.
How will I notify the districts of my certification?
It is the substitute's responsibility to give the Teacher Registry a copy of any teaching certifications to receive the highest level for calling. It is also the substitute's responsibility to give the school districts a copy of any teaching certifications to receive a higher rate of pay (if one is available). If the information appears on TEACH, or if your information was updated, the Teacher Registry needs to be notified.
You can apply for certification online. This website allows you to fill out your application for certification and pay online. Also, there is an option as you complete the application to have it reviewed by Jennifer Lunt, the WSWHE BOCES Regional Certification Officer. If you have any certification questions, please e-mail [email protected] or you can learn more about New York State Certification by clicking here.
Will I need to be fingerprinted?
A fingerprint supported criminal history background check is required by law for employment for schools in New York State through the NYS Education Department. Instructions will be given if you are selected to be a substitute with the WSWHE BOCES. If you already have a fingerprint clearance you will not need to be reprinted.
How long does it take to become approved?
The Teacher Registry will start processing your application once all forms are received. Please note we will contact any past or present employers listed on your application. This process may take up to 2 weeks depending on the availability of your references.
How do I reapply for next year?
If you are a current substitute for WSWHE BOCES (meaning you have registered to work within the past school year as a substitute for WSWHE BOCES) and would like to reapply as a substitute for the next school year, please click here.
Do you handle substitutes for summer school?
The summer program is on a smaller scale with few positions available, primarily for teaching assistants and teacher aides. If you are a current substitute registered with the WSWHE BOCES and are interested, please contact the Teacher Registry after June 1 at (518) 746-3375 or via email at [email protected].