Give Your Substitute Teacher Help
They Need To Be Effective!!

When you're away, you pray for good substitute teacher help.

Read my advice to Jennifer, an inexperienced substitute teacher in Ontario, who brought her concern to my attention.

"Honey, sometimes I get to the school where I'm substituting for the day, getting there just on time or a few minutes early.

Looking over the teacher's lesson plans (day book) for the day, I realize that the first lesson(math for example), has an activity sheet for students to complete that has to be photocopied. The morning bell has gone off and the students are coming into the classroom.

Does it really matter when I teach the different lessons throughout the day?

My Answer

Jennifer, I personally am pretty flexible, as many teachers are. As a teacher you need to be flexible.

So, as long as you teach and complete all the lessons that the teacher planned for that day, you're fine. If you do have to switch lessons around, teach each lesson for the specified length of time.

But, really do your best to stick to the day schedule, as it is already disruptive enough when the teacher is away. You are there to do the best job you can.

P.S. Most teachers do appreciate it when the substitute (supply) teacher leaves a short note, letting them know how the day went, everything that was covered and any behavioral problems that occurred in the classroom.

Being an effective substitute teacher is not easy! Be sure to read my tips for substitude teachers page and you'll be sure to have a productive and enjoyable day.

Want some more excellent tips for substitute teachers?

I've discovered this e-book written by Ben Owen,an experienced elementary school teacher, who says " substitute teaching is the most fun job in the world".

Substitute Teaching: The ABCs

The book takes readers step-by-step through a typical school day. It has tricks of the trade, tips, suggestions, ideas, advice, procedures and everything that a substitute/supply teacher needs to know.

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