JEFFERSON CITY – The Missouri State Board of Education approved an alternative route to obtain a substitute certificate to teach in public schools. The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education consulted with education groups to help address the shortage of substitute teachers. Those seeking a substitute certificate must complete 60 semester hours or more of college-level credit from a DESE-recognized and regionally accredited academic degree-granting institution. The rule is in effect. Individuals who possess a high school diploma or equivalent may complete 20-hour, state-approved substitute teacher online training to be eligible for a substitute certificate. Training includes topics such as professionalism, diversity and engaging students. “Many teachers and school administrators have expressed concern about the potential shortage of substitute teachers during the 2020-21 school year due to COVID-19,” an assistant commissioner, Paul Katnik, said.