What do I need to do to get started?

To join our roster of outstanding guest teachers start by emailing or faxing a current resume with cover letter to Cheryl Stephens. If we are recruiting guest teachers Cheryl will contact you to schedule an interview.

What documentation do I need to be a guest teacher?

A valid Alberta teaching certificate, a clean, recent Police Information Check and an Alberta Children's Services Intervention Check. If you possess a TQS, having a copy on file would enable us to accurately place you on the salary grid if you work for an extended period of time.

Do I need anything else to complete my employee file?

We are required to have a copy of your SIN (Social Insurance Number) on file. We can make a copy of your card when you come for your meeting with Cheryl. If you do not have a card, you can bring the top portion of an Income Tax Assessment form and we will accept that. FFCA pays guest teachers through direct deposit. You will need to provide a voided cheque or a document from your bank with your bank account information on it. Earning statements are sent electronically as well, so an email address is also required.

When and what do I get paid?

Guest teachers are paid on the 10th of each month for the month prior (days worked between the first of the month and the 10th will be paid the month after). The daily rate of pay for 2009-10 is $205.00. Half days, morning or afternoon, are 50% of the daily rate. Deductions are EI (employment insurance) and CPP (Canada Pension Plan). We are also obligated to report your service to the Alberta Teacher Retirement Fund but there are no contributions deducted from your salary.

Are there benefits?

We do not require our guest teachers to join our benefit plan. It is very costly and there are alternate options which are much less expensive that a guest teacher can use. Currently, guest teachers are not offered the option of joining our Alberta Health Care account.

What kind of support can I expect from FFCA?

FFCA wants our guest teachers to have successful experiences in our classrooms.To that end we offer training sessions twice a year to help teachers successfully deliver the programs that are unique to FFCA. These sessions are offered in October and March of each school year. Resources are also available to purchase or borrow from Central Office.

How often will I work?

It is impossible to guarantee a specific number of days that a guest teachers will work. Professional development is a priority to FFCA and there are many days when there is a need for many guest teachers at each campus. Illness is a constant possibility in the life of a teacher but also impossible to predict.

Will I get notice to work?

In a perfect world, yes. However, illness doesn't fall into the 'perfect world' category. You can expect to get called at very short notice.

Can I apply for contracts with FFCA?

Absolutely! When a short-term contract comes available the substitute roster is the first place we look for replacements. Establishing a solid working relationship with our campuses will give guest teachers a real advantage in obtaining short-term or probationary contracts for new school years.

Can I observe at a school to see if I want to join the roster?

We encourage our new guest teachers to contact our schools to set up time to observe some classes. It is a definite advantage to have prior experience in our classrooms before standing in front of it.