Substitute teaching is among the more daunting ways to make a living, and anyone that has actually done this job will verify that. The kids often see a substitute teacher as an opportunity to do whatever they please. That is only one of many problems that substitute teachers run into. They also have to deal with incomplete lesson plans, aloof administrators, and less than prepared teachers. Overcoming these obstacles is the mark of a great substitute teacher, and there are specific things they do to get there.
The first thing that a substitute teacher must do to survive is to be prepared for any class. There is a select group of classes that you may be required to oversee, and you should have alternate lesson plans for each of them in place. Emergency lesson plans can mean the difference between a successful day and a nightmare. Always have a pool of activities to draw from as a substitute teacher, and keep them with you. As soon as you show up to teach English, they will change your assignment to French when you get to the school. Be ready for adjustments.
Another huge key is to have phone numbers, email addresses, and all contact info for the staff and teachers at the schools you will be working with. This information is vital, and can help you to make sure the day is as normal as possible. Do not try to wing it with substitute teaching. You will quickly sink if you do.
When it comes to the kids, it is all about where you set the bar initially. When you first get to the class, they will most likely not be in their assigned seats. Do not pick that battle right away. Simply tell them that you know they are not where they are supposed to be, and that you will trust them until they break that trust. If they act up, you will assign them a new seat. Then make certain that you follow up immediately when they test you. They will test you. Believe that.
Once you get to the class and get the formalities out of the way, stick to the game plan that is left by the teacher. If you have no game plan left for you, then create one from your great big list of activities mentioned above. This is where your preparation comes in. If the teacher has left a good lesson plan, then it is your job as a substitute to implement it.
Once your day is done, be sure to leave a good review of the days events. Any discipline problems should be noted, and a clear defined description of what was accomplished. This will get you high marks with the teacher, and will help you become more in demand as a teacher. Substitute teaching does not have to be a very difficult venture. Take the time to do it right.
