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How do I become a substitute teacher with Scoot in Colorado?

Our hiring process is simple and done on Fountain, our applicant screening software.

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Written by Scooter
Updated over a week ago

We appreciate your interest in becoming a Substitute Teacher with Scoot Education in Denver, Colorado! Our application takes 10 minutes to complete - we promise! If your application is a match, you’ll be contacted within 2-5 business days about next steps. *Our interview process and onboarding process can take 2-3 weeks to complete in total.

What can I expect from the interview process?

Our interview process has the following steps:

  • Application (Screening questions and resume upload if applicable)

  • Phone Interview (15 minutes)

  • Virtual Interview (30 - 45 minutes)

If you move forward from the virtual interview you’ll start the onboarding process to become an activate educator with Scoot!

  • Onboarding (1-2 weeks)

    • Submit Identification documentation

    • Submit 3 references (supervisor references is a must)

    • Upload Certification (if applicable)

    • Submit payroll information

    • Pass a background check

    • Demonstrate eligibility to work in the United States

    • Complete Mandatory Trainings

    • Sign and Return digital Offer Letter

    • Successful completion of compliance checks

*Once all these steps are completed successfully you will officially be a Scoot Sub!

What experience do I need to be a substitute?

A great substitute teacher brings more than just classroom coverage—they bring energy, empathy, and a commitment to student success. Here’s what we value most:

  • A Passion for Education – You believe in the power of learning and always put students first.

  • Empathy and a Growth Mindset – You understand that every student is different, and you’re committed to growing right alongside them.

  • Dependability and Professionalism – With strong references and a clean background check, you show up prepared and ready to lead.

What You’ll Need:

  • Minimum High School Diploma and/OR College credits, an Associate’s degree, or a Bachelor’s degree

  • Three professional references (at least one from a supervisor)

  • State and federal background checks

  • Minimum 1 yr Substitute Authorization

You’ll Stand Out If You:

  • Hold a teaching certificate or credential

  • Have experience working with children, ideally in a classroom setting

  • Are bilingual or have experience teaching bilingual students

Substitute teaching is a chance to make a real difference—and we're looking for people who are ready to rise to the occasion.

What qualifications do I need in order to be a substitute?

To become a substitute teacher in the state of Colorado, you need to obtain a Substitute Authorization from the Colorado Department of Education (CDE). Colorado issues three types of substitute authorizations: 1-year, 3-year and 5-year, based on your educational background and experience, which allow you to work as a substitute teacher in a Colorado public school district, BOCES, charter school or CDE-approved facility school. Issued without a specific content or endorsement area, all substitute authorizations are valid for serving in K-12 classrooms. We ask that you obtain a 1 year Substitute Authorization within 30-60 days of being hired. If you would like to apply for a 3 year Substitute Authorization you can, but only require a 1 year. All expenses related to obtaining a Substitute Authorization (background check & application fee) is the responsibility of the candidate. Please visit the CDE website linked here to start the process.

When I apply for my substitute authorization and undergo a background check with the Colorado Department of Education (CDE), can I use my background check results for Scoot’s background check?

No, you will need to complete two separate background checks. One for the CDE and one for Scoot. However, Scoot will reimburse you up to $56 for the background check you complete during the interview process.

If I’m in the process of obtaining my substitute authorization, can I start subbing in the meantime?

Yes, you can start subbing with us, but it is expected that you receive your substitute authorization within 30 days of being hired. Most of our subs have received their authorizations within 1-2 weeks of submitting their application.

How do I complete the fingerprinting process?

During the interview process you will be sent a detailed email outlining how to schedule a fingerprinting appointment, what you need to bring the day of your appointment and how to upload your fingerprint receipt to our system. Please review all details to ensure you are completing the process correctly.

What would be my work hours as a substitute?

At Scoot we have three different shifts:

  • Full-day, shifts tend to be between 7.5 hours or 8 hours (typically 7:15a - 3:15 or 8:00am - 4:00pm; every school is different)

  • Half-Day, Morning or Afternoon, shifts are up to 4 hours or less

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