Calling all Substitute and Supply Teachers

Just for Substitute Teachers

My hat is off to you! On any given day in North America, between 5 and 6% of teachers are absent which is a much higher percentage than any other profession. Substitute teachers walk into a variety of situations including students who are upset that their teacher isn't there, under planned days and lessons that aren't the easiest to follow. Unfortunately, substitute teachers are often at a great disadvantage.

This week's post is dedicated to all the substitute/supply teachers. Here are some tips that will hopefully make your life much easier.

• To be sure you get called back, leave great notes for the teacher and make sure any marking is done.
•  Always leave the classroom in a respectable state.
• Be courteous and friendly with staff members and office staff.
• Always come prepared with a 'bag of tricks' in the event the class you walk into has scant plans for the day. (Try some of these Bellwork Activities).
• As the students come in, look at each one in the face and welcome them.
• Ask their names, tell them your name.
• Remind them that their teacher will be proud of them if you provide a good report, let them know you're going to follow the teacher's code of conduct and may need their help.
• Do your best to learn their names quickly and call upon them for help as needed.
• Catch them doing great things and acknowledge them.
• If you're not sure about the teacher's rules/discipline. Use a 3 point system, name on the board and 2 check marks will mean the regular teacher will find out.
• Have a variety of back up things to do. ( Charades, scavenger hunts, collaborative math games, brainstorms.....how many things are white? how many things can you count 100 of, how many root vegetables can you name? how many names begin with a P, R, S? How many countries, cities or places can you name beginning at A in the alphabet.

Remember that your success will lead to a position or more work which is typically the goal. Visit worksheetplace.com for handy worksheets for your bag of tricks.