ques. responses

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ques. responses
By Jeannie Martin

1) Do most teachers have a substitute folder or binder with helpful, updated information in it?
No, very few have a regular sub folder with proper emergency, classroom procedures, etc. usually just a one pager they made
up the day before.
2) In general, what percentage of teachers leave you lesson plans that are specific and clear? I would say about 75%
3) Please indicate whether the following items are a)essential, b)helpful, but not crucial,
c) unnecessary
* a current seating chart-helpful
* detailed lesson plans-helpful
* a class schedule-essential
* a schedule for all students who

leave the classroom for any reason (instrumental music lessons, special ed. programs, etc.)-helpful
* a class roster-essential
* an explanation of the procedures for the beginning and ending of the day -helpful
* extra work for emergencies or for when the students finish early-helpful
* a description of where the teacher's editions and other important materials are located (not necessary)
* a list of classroom rules and disciplinary procedures (helpful)
* an office referral form for discipline problems (helpful..are you kidding..the office not an option usually)
* procedures for using A.V. equipment (not necessary)
* the names and schedules of paraprofessionals and volunteers (not necessary)
* the name of a teacher the substitute can go to for help (would be nice...never given)
* the names of helpful students (helpful)
* the names of students who may be a challenge (not necessary)
* procedures for emergency dismissal (essential..but rarely given)
* a floor plan or map of the school (helpful)
* a duty schedule (not necessary)
* a list of students with special medical needs (essential)
* field trip and assembly instructions (not necessary)
* signed computer use agreements (not necessary)
* a description of special school procedures (not necessary) (where to pick students up after recess, etc.)

4) What is the most common problem that you deal with concerning student behavior?

sassiness...disrespect....pushing my buttons to test how far they can go.

5) Do you have your own consequences for student misbehavior, use the individual teacher's plan, or some combination?
a combo of both...depending on circumstances and seriousness of incident.

6) What specific things do you do to make your day go well?
- a teacher who leaves sufficient, stimulating work that requires the students to put in much effort...for example, it needs to be handed in that class for marks...(hehehe) If the teacher didn't say that it needed to be handed in, Iusually tell the students that is due that day anyways and I find this motivates them to work (especially helpful with Jr. high/middle years and high school).

7) What concerns do you have for the current substitute program that is in place in your district?
-unqualified subs who are paid less getting called without first contacting qualified subs.
(small towns)
-lack of support from administration
-
8) What can classroom teachers and other staff do to make your experience more positive?
-tell students ahead of time that they will be away and face dire consequences if they misbehave.
-offer support to sub.
-if they have a problem with sub, let them know how they can improve for next time rather then just not calling them in anymore...be honest with how you want things done differently and offer suggestions.

9) Do you leave the teacher a note telling her or him how the day went?
of course
Please add any other comments or suggestions that you feel will be helpful.
Subbing has its drawbacks but also some bonuses, you can choose your own hours, no correcting and no planning. Great for new moms who want to take time off from teaching but get away a few days a week to keep in touch. Great experience! If you can successfully (or least somewhat successfully) substitute teach, then you'll make a better teacher someday!