Navigating Substitute Teachers: A Guide to Smooth Sailing
With the current teacher shortage, having a substitute teacher step in to manage your class is an inevitability. However, rather than dreading the task of crafting those dreaded sub plans, let’s proactively tackle it and make sub planning a breeze this school year.
EMERGENCY ESSENTIALS
Assemble a binder with crucial information, including:
- Emergency contact details for you, the school nurse, and the principal
- Your daily schedule breakdown
- Specific instructions for any students with unique needs
- A comprehensive list of classroom routines and procedures
- A detailed school map, including fire drill evacuation routes
LESSON PLAN PERFECTION
Provide a detailed lesson plan, outlining the day’s objectives, necessary materials, and step-by-step instructions for each activity.
LEGENDS OF LEARNING: YOUR SUBBING ALLY
Legends of Learning, a free online platform, offers a treasure trove of educational games and activities aligned with state standards, ideal for reinforcing various concepts.
- Create an account on Legends of Learning.
- Browse the extensive game library.
- Filter games by subject, grade level, and standard.
- Assign selected games to your students.
Legends of Learning goes the extra mile by tracking student activity and performance, eliminating the need for missing papers or vague notes about how the day unfolded.
ADDITIONAL TIPS FOR SUBBING ACCESS
- Identify and empower a trusted student to assist in maintaining classroom order.
- Establish routines that allow the classroom to function independently. Daily rotations or a “must do/may do” routine help students navigate expectations seamlessly.
- Implement an incentive system to motivate students throughout the day.
By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and productive learning experience for your students, even in your absence. Remember, a well-prepared classroom is a happy classroom!