What is subbing like?

Home

Chat

Blogs

Collection

Directory

Home : 2005 : April : 20

What is subbing like?
By Hifiman

Well Alyssa, I am a fairly new sub. I have only been doing it for about 3 months now. Subbing can be difficult, frustrating, easy, and fun all rolled up into one.

My first day in the classroom was a half-day with a second
grade class. I describe my experience as a deer caught in someone's headlights. The teacher was in the class and explained to me what to do with the kids for the afternoon. Within five minutes of him leaving the kids learned who had complete control of the class - them! I was totally unprepared for the experience.
Each time since then has gone much better. Sometimes I have some classes

that are really easy and fun. The kids are easy to manage and the hassles are few. Sometimes I get some classes that make that 2nd grade class look easy, but I am becoming more experienced and am constantly learning how to handle things better.

The biggest problem I faced when I started is that a classroom is sooooo different from anything I have ever experienced as an adult. I started in the medical field, then transitioned to the computer field, and now I am attempting to become a teacher. In addition to learning how to manage a classroom, I have had to learn new jargon and concepts in order to do my job. It's hard because teachers often assume the subs will know the lingo and concepts. Things will be so much better when you start to learn all the things that are exclusive to teaching.

Your attitude will make all the difference in the world. Go into each classroom smiling and hope for the best. Some days are good, some are bad; however, I do think you wind up learning more from the bad days. It gives you a chance to think about what went wrong an plan for that situation if it happens again. Hopefully you know other teachers that you can share your experience with. Teachers are the best. They have experienced everything you're ever gonna' experience in the classroom and more. They know what works, what doesn't work, and most importantly, they can explain to you why.

One thing I just learned about subbing is that the best experience you can get is to get a assignment that lasts for more than a day. I just got done with week with the same class. During that week I learned more than I ever thought possible. For me, I feared having extended time in one class, now I'm actively seeking it out.

I'm rambling on, but try to have fun with it and you will. Be respectful to the teachers and ask for help from your neighboring teachers. I have found that most are more than willing to help. And remember, the two most powerful positions in any school are the Principal's secretary and the janitorial staff. Make them happy, and they'll make you happy.