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Frequently Asked Questions for Substitute Support Staff
Are Substitutes required to live in the City of Chicago?
No. Day to Day substitutes may live outside the city.
How long does it typically take to hear back from CPS after applying for a Substitute position?
Our goal is to connect with all candidates within one week of application submission. If you are not yet qualified to substitute teach, please attain a license from the Illinois State Board of Education first. Due to state law, we prioritize interviewing candidates who are licensed.
I have questions about onboarding. Who should I contact?
ALL questions related to onboarding should be directed to Staffing Services. They can be reached via email at staffingservices@cps.edu.
I already did a TB test or Background Check for CPS. Can I use that to be hired as a Substitute?
It depends. If your test results are within the last 90 days, we may be able to use them. Please check with Staffing Services.
Can I accept other position assignments?
Substitute Teachers can only accept substitute teacher assignments. Substitute Special Education Classroom Assistants can accept both Substitute Special Education Classroom Assignments and Substitute Teacher Assistant assignments.
I received an offer to join CPS as a Substitute. What should I do next?
Congratulations! Please complete the onboarding tasks outlined in your offer email so we can get you working with students soon.
ISBE has issued my license, but it’s not valid yet. What should I do?
Log in to your ELIS account with ISBE, and register your license with Region 15 - City of Chicago, Chicago Public Schools. Once your license is registered, you will be eligible for employment with CPS.
How do I apply for ISBE to reimburse my application fee?
Once you have worked for 10 school days, you can apply on ISBE’s website to reimburse your application fee.
How do I receive a Substitute assignment?
You can access job assignments through Frontline via the web, or phone.
Log in online - access Frontline Absence Management through cps.edu/apps. You will use your CPS username, password, and a single-use code — similar to logging into your CPS email.
Log in by phone - call toll-free 1-800-942-3767. Your PIN is your 4-digit birthdate (MMDD)
What steps are required for me to continue my employment as a Substitute at CPS?
To remain an active substitute, you MUST work one day every 120 calendar days. If you do not work at least once every 120 days, your employment as a substitute may end. You can reapply online. Please visit our website at www.cps.edu/iwanttosub for information about the application process.
Be sure to renew your PEL, SUB or STS license with the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). Call 217-557-6763 for more information or visit their website at www.isbe.net.
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