Top Tips for Substitute & Supply Teaching: Part Two

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Show Notes:

Substitute teaching can be such an amazing way to gain valuable experience before you secure a full-time teaching position. If you are subbing right now, or thinking about subbing in the future, you are going to love today’s episode! I’m going to share some tips to help make your subbing journey that much easier and more enjoyable. 

I have to give a huge thank you to one of my listeners, Nicole Evans! Much of what I’m going to share today was actually submitted by her. After my first episode all about subbing, episode 104, Nicole reached out to me to say that she had even more amazing ideas she thought would be helpful to share in the podcast.

I know that you will find these tips super helpful, especially if you are new to subbing. Every classroom and school is different, so having these useful strategies in your back pocket will make for a smoother transition no matter where your next sub job takes you.

One of the biggest takeaways that Nicole gives is to not be afraid to ask all of the questions you have. When you step foot into a new classroom, you're there for the whole day and you need to feel comfortable and confident within the school. Especially when it isn't a school that you’re used to, it can be really challenging to adapt to new systems and routines. I know it can get uncomfortable to ask certain questions, but it's really important, especially during this time of COVID that you not hold back!

Another important piece of advice is to focus on classroom management right away. This includes getting to know the kids and taking that time to really talk to them and connect with them. Building these relationships will cause them to want to follow the rules and routines as they typically would in the classroom with the regular teacher. 

When you put your energy towards connecting with the students and the staff, they will remember you and keep you in mind for future opportunities! Think about your time subbing as not just waiting and hoping for a job, but as a chance to participate in an extended job interview. I believe that how you do anything is how you do everything. 

If you're committed wholeheartedly to being the very best sub you can be, the teachers and administration can see right away that you would also be committed to being the very best teacher you can be.

Inside this week's show, you'll learn:

• Suggestions for learning a classroom’s COVID precautions.
• Specific questions to ask nearby teachers before the school day begins.
• Fun ideas for managing the classroom as a sub.
• How to build relationships by playing Two Truths and a Lie.
• Ways for teachers to set the tone and expectation for students to have a positive experience during the time that they’re away.
• Why you should go to the staff room on your breaks throughout the day.

Links & resources mentioned inside this episode:

• Watch my FREE, On-Demand Masterclass: 7 Hot Tips for Success in September
• Check out my Back to School Jokes Morning Work inside my TpT store.
• Grab my September First-Year Teacher Bundle inside my TpT store.
• Get your copy of my Substitute Teacher Station (Farmhouse Chic Design).
• Get your copy of my Substitute Teacher Station (Tropical Brights Design).
• Learn more about R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy.
• Join our Beginning Teacher Talk Private Facebook Group.
• Follow Dr. Lori on Instagram.

I hope this information is helpful as you prepare for your first, second, or third year of teaching. Until next time, remember, just because you're a beginning elementary teacher, there's no need for you to struggle like one.

💛 Lori

Dr. Lori Friesen | Beginning Teacher Mentor

Creator of the R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy, Dr. Lori Friesen has mentored thousands of beginning teachers across the country through her workshops and courses. Host of the popular podcast, Beginning Teacher Talk, and creator of the innovative literacy program for 1st and 2nd grade, Dogs Help Kids Read and Succeed, Dr. Lori is dedicated to serving educators and inspiring learners. Learn more at drlorifriesen.com and at howdogshelpkids.com.

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Related episodes you might enjoy:

• How to Cope with Sunday Night Anxiety: Yes, it is Real, and Yes, You are Normal
• My Top 11 Tips for Substitute and Supply Teachers
• Fast Finisher Challenges That Are NOT Busywork: The Imagination Station
• Classroom Management 101: 5 Secrets Nobody Tells You in University

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