Perhaps it's because I know we can't live without them, or maybe it's because my son has recently become one, but either way I feel the need to write a little tribute to substitute teachers. I mean, let's face it, they get a bad rap. In a culture where teachers are generally undervalued, substitutes come in as our replacements, and rarely is there much said in their honor. This is a grave mistake on everyone's part! These people come in cold, get their direction on paper that they are then asked to relay to a classroom full of students, put themselves at the mercy of little kids, preteens and teenagers who are empowered by the absence of their regular teacher. I don't know about you, but to me, substitute teaching is like being a waiter or waitress. Everyone should have to do it for at least 6 months at some point early in their lifetime. Once they did their shift, folks would never again feel emboldened to talk of those in the profession quite the same way.
So, in honor of substitute teachers, and in an effort to help them do their job better so that all can benefit, I thought it would be fun and helpful to write up a little list to help anyone who braves the classroom as one of these interim teachers. I have found myself lately watching our subs and trying to help them where I can. There are some tools that I try to pass along to help them with their craft. Really, when they are confident and do their job well, everyone benefits! Here is my list...what can you add?
Dear Substitute/Interim Teachers:
1. When you enter the room, please put your name on the board. YOU MATTER! Your name makes you relatable and just a little more familiar. Also, it is an acceptance symbol to have your name grace the walls. Chances are that the students have their names throughout the room, on notebooks, desks, bulletin boards, etc...for today, you are part of the family. Own it! Make the space yours and let the students know who you are.
2. Even if you are soft spoken, use your "I am here!" voice. Then wait a little before trying again. Chances are that if you are a surprise, the students will be a little wound up. It's OK. Just go around and maybe ask individuals to give their attention, then use your "I am here!" voice again. They will get it. They play school every day.
3. Remember, even the kid who might not be able to give you full attention or respect is loved by someone at home. These are people who matter...treat them with kindness and respect. I promise you, it will pay off. Show a genuine interest in them and in their presence at school today. Let them know you are not only here to dole out assignments, but to help them and share this beautiful day with them.
4. Please be present to the people in the room! Once they get started, wander the room, weaving in and out of desks and groups. Talk to them. Stay off your phone! Try to do some of the work with them. Maybe read something together instead of having them all work alone.
5. Leave notes about exceptional behavior for the teacher. If this teacher is one of the good ones, they will care to know the parts of your time with their students that stood out. The misbehavior should be shared but so should the good behavior. Let them know what you enjoyed about your time with their students. Make them feel lucky to be back in the room and to have this school year with this particular group of human beings.
6. Reach out! If you are struggling or just have a question, find a buddy. Really, try to get to school early and find a buddy before the day even begins! You don't have to feel alone. The building is full of people who do this job every day. They want you to succeed because they want kids to succeed. Ask your questions. Give compliments to others. This job is all about community and communication.
7. The getting in early is worth mentioning again. Isn't having a productive day worth fifteen minutes? Please don't walk in right at the last minute! Get to school at least ten to fifteen minutes before you are actually on the clock. This extra time will help you prepare for the day and will make all the difference in how the day and you coincide and work to be the best you can both be for the students in your class.
You, Dear Substitute, have a difficult but imperative role in our schools. Don't let anyone undermine the job you are tasked to complete. We want you to be here. We need you to be here. We know it is hard work and you don't always get to feel appreciated by the students. We appreciate you!
Please leave comments that we can add to help the substitutes feel successful and joyful in their work! Perhaps we can compile our ideas into a list to be posted in the main office, substitute sign-in page or even given out to substitutes as they retrieve their badge at the beginning of each shift they offer to serve in our schools.
