Substitute FAQ

💬 Frequently Asked Questions

Helping You Start Strong as a Boise School District Substitute

Welcome! We know that getting started as a substitute can come with lots of questions, and we’re here to help. Below you’ll find clear answers to the most common questions we receive. If you ever need more assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out — we’re happy to support you!

📅 How often do I need to sub?

To maintain an active sub account, substitutes need to fulfill at least five (5) substitute jobs per semester. 

📌 Do I have to complete the mandatory Vector training?

Yes. You must complete all assigned Vector training modules before you’ll be able to view or accept jobs in Absence Management. 

⏱ How long do fingerprints take to process?

Fingerprint clearance typically takes 7–10 business days through the State Department of Education. Occasionally, processing may be faster or take a bit longer. 

📚 Do I have to complete the Certified Substitute Training before I can begin subbing?

Yes — if you plan to accept Certified substitute jobs, you must complete the Certified Substitute online training first. However, you may begin working in Classified positions before completing that training. 

🆔 How do I find my Substitute ID number?

Your Substitute ID number is the same as your Employee ID number. You’ll find it in the welcome email or letter you received from Absence Management or Payroll after being hired. 

📧 I never received information about my Boise School District email.

You should receive your BSD email login details via a welcome email from Absence Management about 1–2 weeks after completing all required steps.

Make sure to check your spam or junk folder as well. If you still don’t see it, please email us at subs@boiseschools.org. 

💻 Is it better to wait for Absence Management to call me or to check online for jobs?

We recommend checking online through Absence Management regularly. The system only calls substitutes two days before the start of an assignment, but jobs are often posted much earlier online. 

👥 What are Classified jobs?

Classified positions include non-teaching roles such as School Support Assistants, Special Education Assistants, front office staff, and similar support positions. 

🖐 What if I’ve already been fingerprinted in the past 6 months?

If you were fingerprinted within the last 6 months through an Idaho educational institution, we may be able to access your prints by submitting a BIC form at your onboarding appointment.

If your prints are older than 6 months or not for educational purposes, you will need to be fingerprinted again. 

💰 If I’m a Certified sub, can I take a Classified job and still earn Certified pay?

No. Your pay rate is determined by the job type, not your certification status. If you take a Classified job, you’ll be paid at the Classified rate — even if you are a Certified sub. 

🪪 What if I don’t have a second form of ID for the I-9?

We can still fingerprint you, but we cannot complete your hiring process until we receive your second form of identification as required for the I-9. 

📅 When do substitutes get paid?

Substitutes are paid on the 15th of each month for work completed the previous month.

For example, if you work in January, you will be paid on February 15.

👩‍🏫 I’m a retired teacher from the Boise School District — do I need to be fingerprinted again?

Yes, but you will not be charged the fingerprinting fee. BSD retirees must be re-fingerprinted, but the $28.25 fee is covered by the district.

Be sure to consult with PERSI before submitting any paperwork to ensure your return to work does not affect your retirement status. 

🔁 What if my assignment changes when I arrive at a school?

School principals have the discretion to adjust substitute assignments based on the immediate needs of the students and site. 

🏦 Do I have to complete a direct deposit form?

Yes. The Boise School District does not issue paper checks.

If you do not have a bank account, you’ll be issued a payroll debit card, which may include fees for use.