by A. J. Thompson

Created on: August 21, 2008   Last Updated: September 10, 2009

As we grow older, and pass through the halls of elementary school, middle or junior high school and high school we develop an opinion about substitute teachers. They don't really care about their job, they are just there, and we don't have to listen to them or do any work they try to assign to the class. What they say falls on deaf ears.

As I have been going to school to get my Elementary Education licensing, I have been a substitute. And, to my son's horror, I subbed at his school.

The most important thing I learned while subbing at the elementary level is that the kids still like school. The school I subbed at was K-4. We also have a pre-school program, as well as special needs programs. I was lucky enough to sub in all areas of the school. Art class, gym class, pre-school, kindergarten, I took any sub position I could. I quickly worked my way up the ladder of the sub list.

What I recommend as a sub:
1. Always get to know the teachers at the school were you plan to sub.

2. Try to get to know the student's names. (It confuses them a little when you call them by name, and helps you to be able to keep them in line.)

3. Arrive early, so you can go over what the teacher expects, and get to know the classroom. It impresses the students when you are prepared, and they will be more ready to listen to you, then if you are stumbling around without a clue.

4. Always leave a detailed note for the teacher. They like to know what you did with the class when they were gone. Be honest in the note, and leave names of students that misbehave, or are helpful.

5. It's ok to be nice, and it's ok to have fun with the kids.

6. Be prepared to do something other then exactly what the teacher planned for you. Sometimes you have to compromise. But also be prepared for the students to tell you "That's not how the teacher does it," no matter what age group, there will always be at least one student that tells you this once or twice during the day.

7. Make time to spend at the school observing how the school operates. Find out lunch schedules and free time for teachers before you go in to sub.

8. Familiarize yourself with the school. Find the bathrooms, and drinking fountains. Find the art room, gym and library. There's nothing like leading a class to the gym when you are supposed to be at the library.

9. Do not be nervous. Those kids are like sharks, the smell fear!

10. Have fun!

Learn more about this author, A. J. Thompson.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.