Substitute teachers are the unsung heroes who step in to ensure that classrooms continue to run smoothly when regular teachers are away. Their mission is vital: to maintain order and provide instruction, often without the recognition they deserve. It’s essential to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of these educators who work behind the scenes to keep students learning.
For many substitute teachers, the motivation stems from a genuine love for kids.
Donna Maki, a high-school and middle school substitute teacher, said, “I love kids. All ages… that’s what’s kept me here seventeen years, just being able to help them and talk with them and joke with them.”
This passion for helping students and making connections is a driving force in their work. The ability to connect with students through laughter and humor can make a significant difference in their day.
“I really get excited when I get to know kids,” said Polly Matteson, a high-school and middle school substitute teacher, “And um, if we have a little laughter, a little humor that makes it a good day.”
Preparation is a critical aspect of a substitute teacher’s role. Having access to essential information such as class rosters, evacuation plans, and emergency sub notes is crucial for managing the classroom effectively.
As Maki said, “Each teacher should have a green folder… with all the information of like red rosters, and evacuation, papers, and emergency sub plan notes.”
Adaptability is also key. Some subs go above and beyond, adapting lessons to make them engaging.
“I take their notes and I transfer them onto a slide, sometimes a pumpkin, depending on the season,” Matteson said.
Despite their best efforts, substitute teachers face numerous challenges. They often feel underappreciated, yet they work diligently to maintain a flawless learning environment. The substitutes don’t always have recognition for their work, but they work really hard to make sure that classes run seamlessly, despite the struggles they face.
One of the biggest hurdles is managing student behavior. Students may perceive a substitute as less authoritative, leading to disruptions.
Maki said, “They think that when they’re teacher is here, that’s like mom and dad, right, then when substitutes come, that’s like, ‘oh grandma’s here, we can have a free for all…”
A substitute must strive to enforce the same rules and policies as the regular teacher to maintain order.
“We have to run a class like the teacher has asked us to, with the same policies and rules that they would have,” said Maki.
Academically, substitute teachers may face challenges when assisting students with complex subjects.
“Sometimes I struggle helping kids with algebra,” said Matteson.
In extreme cases, they may even need to resolve conflicts.
“I have had to break up a fight, which was not fun… I had to stand in the middle of them, and try my techniques of calming them down,” Maki said.
Beyond academics, substitute teachers play a crucial role in teaching character traits that are vital for future success. They aim to instill values such as integrity, kindness, and patience.
,”I want them to have integrity and to know that they matter, that they’re worth very valuable peopl,” Matteson said.
By teaching students to be kind and patient, substitutes help them develop essential life skills.
“If you learn to be kind and patient with people that’s gonna get you probably further along in life than if you did know everything and you weren’t nice to people,” said Maki.
In conclusion, substitute teachers are invaluable members of the education system. They ensure continuity in learning, provide support, and instill important values in students. It’s time we recognize and appreciate these unsung heroes for their dedication and hard work.