How to Be a Competent Substitute Teacher

Substitute teaching is more than simply filling in for the regular teacher in his/her absence. I find that the experience calls for a variation of skills and abilities needed to perform for the day. Subs are taken for granted but actually should be acknowledged for their duties as teachers. There are various challenges that substitute teachers have to overcome in a days work - Ensuring students complete and turn in their assignments, being on their best behavior, etc.

Sometimes the original teachers have left the state of their classroom in chaos. For instance, he/she may have forgotten to plan any class work and homework or even forgotten about certain schedules that the class needed to follow. It is then up to you to handle those unexpected circumstances. This articles gives tips that substitutes need to know in order to run an effective classroom and have a stress free day every time.

Read over Your Substitute Teacher Handbook: This is vital. Within your handbook lies policies and procedures needed to effectively run the class. Also, you want to comply with all rules to avoid any misunderstandings or conflict. Such issues include sexual harassment, abuse, discrimination, and personnel problems. Knowing what to look for and how to handle any work related situations will give you advantage and protection in the long run.

Plan, Plan, Plan: Planning is a good because you have some sort of structure and an idea of any possible events you may have not expected happens. Some schools have extensive guidelines with great activities for students to complete. Design your own lesson plan form that is modified to suit your talents and interest.

Get Good Sleep Night Before Class: This seems a bit trivial, but in fact is so very important. Some of us are not morning people and let's face it; school time for elementary and high school begins at 7:30. In order to avoid being a groggy teacher that students dislike, get a decent 7-8 hours of rest. I can attest to this because lack of sleep leaves you disoriented and unorganized in the morning.

Establish Who You Are and Your Character at the Beginning of Class: First impressions are EVERYTHING! Children can tell if you are a pushover and they can also tell if you are a firm disciplinary. Demand attention at very beginning of class and this will set the tone for the rest of the period.

Make Note of All Pertinent Facts: This helps you learn what works and what doesn't. Also, this lets the teacher you are subbing for know that you did more than sit and stare at the wall. Take attendance, walk around the classroom and help students and make it known that you are capable of running the class. At the end of each day you substitute, write a detailed note to the teacher, giving an account of the day and such information as who were absent, or who misbehaved, etc. Then, she may be more apt to give you a call next time she is out.

Reward Students: Find a bag of goodies (safe items) that can be given such as stickers, or school supplies. Students like incentives.