NEA Resolutions F-51 Substitute Teachers

The National Education Association believes in the importance of employing professional educators to fulfill the critical role of substitute teachers.

The Association also believes that substitute teachers perform a vital function in the maintenance and continuity of daily education. In order to achieve and maintain the highest standards of student learning and professional practice, and to ensure quality instruction in every classroom every day, the Association further believes that substitute teachers must --

a. Meet the same standards as other licensed teachers within the state

b. Receive professional compensation and benefits

c. Receive continuous professional development

d. Be provided with materials and information appropriate to the position in which they are substituting

e. Be entitled to and supported by state and national affiliates in collective bargaining.

The Association condemns the practice of assigning substitute teachers to regular positions for an extended duration of time. Positions created by extended absence should be filled by available licensed teachers who are eligible to be placed on contractual status by the school district.

The Association opposes the practice of replacing absent teachers by dispersing students to other classrooms

The Association also opposes the use of individuals such as educational support professionals, part-time employees, or employees hired through private agencies to cover classes.

The Association further opposes requiring teachers to substitute during their preparation time.

The Association believes that school districts must provide full compensation for licensed teachers who substitute for personnel on extended leave. (1975, 2000)