Substitute teachers are the unsung heroes of the education system, stepping in to ensure that learning continues seamlessly when regular teachers are absent. However, their ability to be effective hinges largely on how well they are integrated into the school community. 

A school culture that is welcoming and respectful of subs not only enhances their performance but also improves the attraction and retention of quality substitute teachers. 

Here’s how you can build a supportive environment that makes subs feel like an essential part of your school community:

1. Set the tone with a welcoming school culture

The foundation of integrating subs into your school community begins with a school-wide commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive culture. When subs arrive at your school, they should immediately feel like they are stepping into a supportive environment. This can be achieved through simple gestures such as greeting them warmly, providing a brief orientation, and ensuring they have the resources they need for the day. By setting a positive tone from the start, you make it clear that subs are valued members of your educational team.

Set your subs up for success with our essential guide to substitute teaching:

2. Give subs access to teachers’ amenities

One of the easiest ways to make subs feel included is by granting them access to the same amenities that regular teachers enjoy. This includes access to faculty bathrooms, the teachers’ lounge, and designated parking areas. These amenities are more than just conveniences; they are a signal that subs are considered equals in the school community. Allowing them to use these spaces not only makes their day more comfortable but also fosters a sense of belonging.

3. Recognize and celebrate substitute teachers

Recognition is a powerful tool in building a positive school culture. Including subs in school-wide recognition events, such as Teacher Appreciation Day or Week, sends a strong message that their contributions are valued. Schools can take this a step further by creating specific awards for subs, such as a “Best Sub of the Year” award, to honor those who consistently go above and beyond. Celebrating the hard work of substitute teachers not only boosts their morale but also encourages them to continue returning to your school.

4. Provide clear expectations and support

A welcoming school culture also means providing subs with the tools and support they need to succeed. Clear expectations around classroom management, student engagement, and emergency procedures should be communicated to subs from the outset. Additionally, offering a mentor or buddy system where a full-time staff member checks in on the sub throughout the day can provide them with the support they need to navigate any challenges. 

As substitutes gain more experience, their challenges become more specifically job-related, including not having lesson plans or logistical issues like parking or finding the classroom. Subs prioritize preparation as vital to their success in the classroom. Take a minute to update your Swing profile with parking information, emergency plans, and any school policies. When subs feel prepared and supported, they are more likely to have a positive experience and perform at their best.

5. Provide professional development opportunities

Professional development opportunities are often reserved for full-time staff, but including subs in these events can be a game-changer. By inviting subs to participate in professional development sessions, you not only help them enhance their skills but also make them feel like a valued part of your educational community. This can include training on specific school policies, classroom management strategies, or even subject-specific workshops. Investing in the professional growth of your subs demonstrates that you see them as an important part of the educational process.

6. Foster connections with full-time staff

Building strong relationships between subs and full-time staff is crucial for a cohesive school culture. Encourage your regular teachers to engage with subs, whether it’s through informal conversations in the teachers’ lounge or more structured introductions at the beginning of the day. A mentor system where a regular teacher is assigned to check in with the sub throughout the day can help bridge any gaps and make the sub feel more connected. 

In a recent survey, when asked to stack rank from most to least important, respondents indicated respect—from students and administration—is valued the most. Respect can be as simple as acknowledgement for a job well done, or a personal touch, like being welcomed by the principal and escorted to the classroom at the beginning of the day.

When subs have strong relationships with other staff members, they are more likely to feel supported and less isolated.

7. Encourage feedback

Subs can offer valuable insights into your school’s culture and operations, often noticing things that full-time staff might overlook. Actively solicit their feedback through informal conversations or structured surveys, and demonstrate that you are willing to act on their suggestions. This not only helps you improve your school’s environment but also shows subs that their opinions are valued, further reinforcing their sense of belonging.

8. Create long-term opportunities for engagement

If you have subs who frequently work at your school, consider offering them more consistent assignments or inviting them to participate in school events and activities. This can include everything from staff meetings to extracurricular events, helping subs become more familiar with the school’s culture and expectations. Long-term subs are more likely to develop strong relationships with students and staff, providing greater continuity in the classroom and contributing positively to the school community.

Building a school culture that welcomes and respects substitute teachers is key to creating an environment where all educators can thrive. When substitute teachers are integrated and valued, they are more likely to return, stay engaged, and contribute positively to your school’s success.