Getting a permanent teaching job isn’t as easy as finishing your degree and filling out a few applications. Even with a master’s or a bunch of certifications, how to get hired as a teacher in a full-time job in a classroom can feel frustrating and, honestly, kind of exhausting.
Many college graduates, and even those with a master’s degree, often find themselves turning to substitute teaching as their full-time job. While it’s easy to leave a sub position when a full-time opportunity comes along, landing one of those long-term sub-roles that offer more consistency is much harder.
These positions are highly sought after, especially by new teachers, because they give you the chance to get your face out there and start building relationships with the staff—something that can really help lead to a permanent spot. With so many people competing for the same jobs, it’s more important than ever to make sure your name is out there.
So, how do you move from being a “sub” to a classroom of your own? Here are some practical, real-world strategies to help you stand out and secure a permanent teaching position.
How to Get Hired as a Teacher
Treat Every Job Like It’s the Real Thing
Whether you’re subbing for a day or doing a long-term placement, act like it’s your classroom. Show up early. Be prepared. Greet students at the door. Leave detailed notes for the teacher. Little things like this matter more than you think. Word gets around fast in schools, especially when you’re doing a great job.
And the truth is, long-term sub positions, while competitive and hard to come by, are golden opportunities. They give you a chance to build trust with students and colleagues, demonstrate your classroom management skills, and show that you’re reliable. That visibility matters.
Make Your Skills and Personality Known
If you’ve got a unique talent or background, don’t keep it to yourself. Principals and hiring committees love to see what makes a candidate stand out. Are you fluent in another language? Great with tech? Have a music background or were a team captain in college sports? Talk about it!
These “extra” things show that you’re well-rounded and can bring something valuable to the school beyond just teaching the curriculum. Mention them casually in conversations or work them into your cover letter and resume. Don’t be shy about what you bring to the table. School districts are always looking for individuals who possess that special something.
Network with Everybody and Anybody
Subbing is a great way to get your face out there because you’re constantly rubbing elbows with faculty and meeting people from different school districts. Say hello to everyone you pass in the hallway, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re actively looking for a teaching job.
Don’t overlook the custodial staff, the school secretary, or the school nurse—these are the people who interact with just about everyone in the building, and if they like you, they can be a huge help in getting your name out there.
Anytime you meet someone, whether it’s at school or outside of it, find a casual way to mention that you’re on the hunt for a permanent teaching position. You never know which connection might end up opening a door for you.
Use Student Teaching as a Launch Pad
Student teaching is your chance to shine and show off your talents. It’s the perfect opportunity to put everything you’ve learned in college into action. Treat those 12 weeks like one long job interview. Every day you walk into that building, bring your “A” game. Listen to your mentors, take time to get to know the principal, and make sure people start recognizing your face.
The goal is to make yourself unforgettable—in the best way. Even if there isn’t an open position in that building when you finish your placement, people talk. This is your moment to show what you’re made of—so make the most of it while you have the chance.
Keep Up With Tech—And Know How to Use It
Knowing about educational technology is great, but being able to use it confidently in a classroom setting is a game-changer. If you’re not already familiar with tools like Google Classroom, Kahoot, Canva, Jamboard, or Seesaw, then you’d better start learning them now.
Learning how to build digital lessons, incorporate tech into assessments, and manage virtual or hybrid classrooms is essential in today’s classrooms. Many principals are looking for teachers who can hit the ground running and won’t need a crash course on basic edtech.
Go Above and Beyond But Don’t Overdo It
No one expects you to stay at school until the lights shut off and the doors are locked, but doing a little more than what is expected can make a huge difference. Offer to help out at school events, volunteer for club meetings or extracurricular activities, or team up with another teacher for a lesson.
Doing these little things shows you care and that you’re invested in the school community. These actions will get noticed, and when people see you go that extra mile, they will see you’re dependable, flexible, and willing to pitch in where needed. Now, don’t run yourself into the ground, but show your genuine interest, and this will put you at the top of the list the next time a teaching position opens up.
Keep Your Application Materials Up-to-Date
Your resume, cover letter and teaching portfolio should be clean, current, and customized. Don’t just use the same generic resume and cover letter for every application. Tailor them to each school. Be sure to mention specific things about their values, programs, or even their mission statement. This will show them that you did your homework.
If possible, create a digital teaching portfolio—something simple, like a Google Site or Canva presentation that includes lesson plans, classroom photos (with no student faces), classroom management strategies, and any feedback you’ve received.
Stay Patient and Persistent
How to get hired as a teacher full-time doesn’t always happen right away. Some teachers end up subbing for a while, sometimes even longer than they expected, before the right job finally comes along. It can be frustrating, but don’t let it get to you. Keep showing up, doing your thing, and making those connections.
Send a thank-you email after interviews, keep an eye on job boards, and don’t be shy about asking around if you hear there might be an opening. You never know what could come from one simple conversation. Sticking with it and being consistent does pay off.
There’s no magic formula for how to get hired as a teacher permanently, but there are moves you can make to stand out. Show up consistently, lead with your strengths, build meaningful connections, and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. Remember, you never know who’s watching, who’s talking, or who’s going to remember you when that perfect position opens up.
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