How to Improve Substitute Teachers

This is going to sound hypocritical (in fact, it is), but there's a certain feeling I get when there's a sub: I get excited because I know that a class full of doing absolutely nothing is ahead. It usually comes true; the sub tries to get us to work, but there's something about not having the regular teacher that makes kids crazy. People try to switch names, goof off, and say things like "You can't tell me to stop hanging from the ceiling, we're allowed to!" Okay, that last one was an exaggeration, but it's the sort of thing that happens. On the opposite end of the spectrum is subs that are so mean that kids do what they say, but don't have any fun. This is a list of things to improve subs:

1. Don't give us busywork.

Oftentimes, when a sub is present, the teacher gives us absolutely pointless work that its only purpose is to give us something to do. It's very boring, and we don't even get anything from doing it! So teachers, if you know you're going to be absent, at least give us actual work!

2. Don't follow the plan too closely.

I understand how subs want to follow the plan teachers gave them. However, it can be really annoying when there's a sub that follows the plan way too closely. For example, once the plan said to make us work on our projects. However, the plan didn't mention that the projects were on computers (obviously the teacher expected us to tell the sub that, which makes sense), so the sub said we weren't allowed to use them! What followed was a completely pointless class.

3. Be likable while still keeping control.

The examples I gave at the beginning are both extremes of subs. An ideal sub should be right in the middle. It's a hard feat to accomplish, I'll admit, but at least attempt to reach that substitute sweet-spot.

4. Get a helper.

Based on previous experience, it seems that when teachers select a student to guide and help the sub, things go by much easier. Preferably, this helper should have a loud voice. Just saying...

5. The textbook is no fun!

Enough said.

But this is only my opinion. If you want to debate or justify one of these five reasons or add another one, comment below!

A sub with a temper. Comic by JEFF DA EDITOR!