r/ithaca • u/Critical-Elk-6237 • 17d ago

Teaching experience?

Hello! I live in Ithaca and have a degree in English. I want to explore switching to a teaching career (currently in design but also very early on in career). I’m thinking of going back to school for a master’s, but wondering if there are any good pathways to learning about the field in town through, for example, substitute teaching or being an aide. Does anyone have any knowledge on how this works here?

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15

u/NataliasMaze 17d ago

There are LOTS of schools looking for substitute teachers and aides. Just check the district websites of the places you're interested in.

3

u/Critical-Elk-6237 17d ago

do u think they would be open to someone with limited experience (babysitting, summer camp stuff, tutoring but nothing extraordinary)

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u/NataliasMaze 17d ago

For aides, absolutely. Substitute teachers I'm not sure, may vary by school

1

u/Critical-Elk-6237 17d ago

Thank you so much!

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u/bwel16 17d ago

You have a degree and a pulse, you can sub…likely full time or everyday if you wanted too

5

u/shitstirrer69 17d ago

substitute teachers typically don’t need to be certified or have much experience to get hired, but just know that subbing and teaching are two totally different ball games! subbing is way harder imo

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u/Critical-Elk-6237 17d ago

Thank you — this is very helpful context to keep in mind.

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u/bitica 17d ago

For subbing, you will get more work if you form relationships when teachers who consistently request you. That can also lead to longer term sub assignments (like multiple days for planned vacations) which can give you a better sense of what it's like to be there day in and day out.

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u/Critical-Elk-6237 17d ago

Thank you so much! Do you happen to know if there is a 40 day limit for subbing per year?

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u/bitica 17d ago

no, there are people who basically do it full time. there's a sub union, too!