1,400 Missourians Enrolled in Rapid Substitute Teacher Training Option

The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education says more than 1,400 individuals have already enrolled in a training program to become a K-12 substitute teacher.

Spokesperson Mallory McGowin says about 200 of the candidates have completed all other necessary requirements to be certified – an application and a background check.

Last month, the state launched the 22-hour online course for those wishing to break into the field during a time when Missouri education leaders anticipate COVID-19 will cause an even greater teacher shortage.