New to sub'ing - middle school

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New to sub'ing - middle school
By Ken M.

Welcome, Lorna.

Yes, this is a great way to exchange! I joined about 3 weeks ago and learned so much already. Best of all it gives us a way to connect since we are somewhat all on our own in the schools as far as networking
with teachers, getting contact via teacher inservices, etc.
I've done a quite a bit of middle school sub'ing and have an upcoming 3 day assignment for 6th grade.
The general theme I see from the seasoned veterans on this forum is always make the teacher's lesson plans your top priority. My experience so far is that teachers will usually leave notes that show lesson plans in enough

detail so if you can locate their teacher wraparound books, etc. and give yourself a quick overview of the materials before the day starts you should not need to bring in your own materials or filler items.

I've made it my own priority to always get to the sub. assignment early, sometimes having to wait for someone to unlock the door. I quickly walk the room, then focus in on the teacher's desk, bookshelves, etc. Obviously notes sitting in the middle of the desk, attendance lists, information on other duties, several names of trusty kids, etc. help a lot.

There's also a great recent thread on kids getting on your case if you deviate from what teacher does. With middle schoolers I think it best to tell them up-front as part of your introduction that you are not the regular teacher and will try your best to give them a day that is organized and follows teacher plans, times, etc. Obviously if the kids have music, art, or other classes outside your own be sure to get them there on-time and follow the clock schedule as close as possible, even if you cannot finish the plan.

Then leave detailed notes. I am a 2nd career teacher, not certified other than the emergency license here in Wisconsin but already have some great teachers asking for me and one standard comment is the quality of my notes and my quick study of lesson plans, etc.

Obviously your job will get easier once you get back in the same class more times - I find even after two or so days with the same kids many of them greet me in the halls, etc. That is the greatest thrill for me in sub'ing is to have some (not all, I don't think even the veterans get 100% "love" from the kids) of them always come up and greet you by name, even if it's been a while between assignments. I wish I could memorize all their names but cannot, yet they seem to all remember mine.

If you're like me you're wading thru the many posts and archives; I wish you the very best.

Ken in Wisconsin