Mussman Works to End Illinois’ Substitute Teacher Shortage

SCHAUMBURG, Ill. – State Rep. Michelle Mussman, D-Schaumburg, is highlighting a new reimbursement opportunity that eliminates a costly application and licensing fee on those seeking to become substitute teachers across Illinois.

“I have heard from countless people that the cost-barrier that existed was something that dissuaded people from becoming substitute teachers in the first place,” Mussman said. “Eliminating this burdensome cost is something that I hope will inspire more people to teach our students, and start to end our substitute teacher shortage.”

The Mussman–backed House Bill 3298 waives the Illinois State Board of Education’s fee on people seeking to become licensed substitute teachers, allowing for some relief to the current substitute teacher shortage. Thanks to Mussman’s undying efforts, substitute teachers will qualify for a reimbursement on their licensing fee after teaching at least 10 full school days.

“Many areas of Illinois suffer from a lack of teachers being able to provide full-day lessons to our students,” Mussman said. “Students should not suffer from the lack of substitute teachers, and by reducing costs that prevent people from teaching to begin with, we are taking good steps to make it easier to teach our students.”