Resources to help substitute teachers succeed in the classroom
Whether you’re new to the classroom or looking to earn better pay in the substitute teaching profession, earning your substitute teaching permit is a crucial step that opens the door to countless opportunities. With teacher shortages continuing across the U.S., districts are seeking qualified individuals to step in and maintain educational standards. Now is the…
Imagine walking into a room of 30 teenagers who’ve just learned their teacher is absent. Their eyes are glued to you—the substitute—and the first five minutes will decide how the rest of the class goes. You look for the sub plans, but the desk is bare, save for a few pencil shavings and a half-eaten…
No matter how thoroughly you craft your lesson plan, there will come a day when you find yourself with extra time at the end of class. Rather than waste valuable learning time, come equipped with activities to engage your students. Not every activity will be a good fit for every school you substitute at, so…
The unexpected can strike in even the best-prepared schools, so it’s helpful to have a good mix of tools and tricks ready to go when you start an assignment. Here are a few ideas that can help in challenging classroom environments. Tips for effective classroom management for substitute teachers Start with a strong introduction The…
Building rapport with students is one of the most important skills a substitute teacher can develop. Establishing a connection quickly allows you to create a positive learning environment where students feel respected and engaged (not to mention, it’ll help the day go by smoother!). Here are some quick and simple ways to build rapport with…
September 15th marks the kick-off of National Hispanic Heritage Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the cultures and contributions of both Hispanic and Latinx Americans. This date is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for the countries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile also celebrate their independence…
A typical day for a substitute teacher can be busy and hectic. There’s a lot to do and a lot to learn, especially if you’re starting out in a new classroom. Either way, one of the most important things you can do is to write detailed notes for the absent teacher. Here are some helpful…
Becoming a teacher is an exciting journey! However, some educators who are new to the field or without prior experience in the classroom wonder if starting off as a substitute teacher is a better way to ease into the profession. If you’re looking to start your teaching career feeling prepared and confident, substitute teaching may…
As a substitute teacher, stepping into a new classroom can feel daunting. The students don’t know you, and you don’t know them. Starting the day with an icebreaker is a fantastic way to ease the tension, build rapport, and set a positive tone. Here are 25 icebreaker ideas to help you introduce yourself and get…
As we dive into the new school year, it’s important to equip yourself with a few key reminders that can help you navigate challenges and set you up for success in every classroom. Here are five essential qualities to help you succeed and put some pep in your step as you head back to the…
