Benefits of Joining OSTA

  • Brochures
    OSTA brochures on Licensure, PERS Retirement system and Unemployment are available to members. These brochures give information specific to substitute teachers. Request them from Phyllis Kirkwood (503) 848-7679

  • Education and In-service
    Each fall in October an annual statewide conference is held, featuring speakers to help and inspire substitute teachers -new curriculum, classroom management, subject area ideas, and problem-solving.

  • Communications
    We publish newsletters and brochures to keep members abreast of educational opportunities, licensure rules, PERS retirement system, and legislation.

  • Meetings
    Executive board meetings are held three or four times a year to plan the fall conference, set priorities, and address issues regarding substitute teachers and the school districts. Any OSTA member is welcome to attend.

  • Legislature
    In the Oregon Legislature we have introduced bills affecting substitute teacher salary, working hours, unemployment, retirement, and due process.

  • Substitute Recognition
    Oregon Substitute Teacher Day is proclaimed each year by the Governor to be during Teacher Appreciation Week in early May.

  • Sub Teacher of the Year
    The Oregon Substitute Teacher of the Year is selected from outstanding substitute teachers nominated by their schools throughout Oregon

  • Salary
    The Oregon daily minimum salary for substitute teachers is set by the legislature at 85% of the average beginning teacher. A substitute cannot be paid for less than a half day. Work beyond a half day becomes a whole day. After ten days in one assignment, the substitute teacher is paid the daily salary of a beginning teacher in the district. 

  • Licenses
    180 days of substitute teaching renews most teaching licenses.

  • Retirement (PERS)
    Substitute teachers who work at least 600 hours per year are members of the state retirement system.