Sometimes, you have to miss a day, or perhaps longer. Don’t worry, it happens. But for teachers, missing time in the classroom can be stressful. Getting a substitute teacher isn’t the problem—what keeps you up at night are the other variables.
How will the students behave? This question will top your list but will be followed quickly by others. Will they be able to complete the work I leave? Will they make me look good?
Don’t discount any of these concerns—they are honest and natural. After all, how students perform academically and behaviorally directly reflects how you run your classroom. Being concerned for them and yourself is a package that can’t be separated into individual parts.
What can you do to ensure your class puts their best foot forward? Here are some steps to follow when preparing your class for a substitute.
1. Respect the class from day one and require that it be reciprocated
Laying the ground rules long before you call upon them is paramount. That doesn’t mean your class will always listen and behave, but it will go a long way to establishing trust and understanding of the rules and consequences. This early approach will set clear expectations when someone temporarily manages your classroom.
2. Realize that they miss you
Really, they do. They are used to the way you teach, discipline, and reward. Having someone else in the room might be stressful, even for the most self-sufficient students. Keep this in mind when you prepare them for your absence.
3. Let them know what the substitute will cover
The students will respond better if they aren’t surprised by the material that the substitute will cover while you are out. While you don’t have to let them know every nuance of how their day will go, making them aware of some things ahead of time will ease their fears about the unknown.
4. Talk to them
Let them know how long you will be gone and why. Repeat the ground rules and ensure they know you are also priming the sub with that info.
5. Give your substitute teacher good notes
This is often an afterthought for teachers when they leave the classroom, but it is one of the most critical aspects of successful coverage. Detail what the classes do, when, and what is next on the list if they preview a little. Give them any insights into particular student needs and behaviors. Your substitute teacher will thank you for it.
6. Reward students for good behavior
A special treat or 15 minutes more recess are small tokens, but they mean a lot to students. Let them know that you appreciate their good behavior in your absence. Because you really do!
A successful substitute teacher day is a welcome relief and essential to overall teacher wellness. Try these steps and watch your students make you proud!
Read More: Not all substitute teacher days are planned, but you can still plan ahead for unplanned absences!
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