What I Pack as a Substitute Teacher
Substitute Teaching Must Haves
Substitute teaching can be both a rewarding and challenging experience…to say the least. But being well-prepared can make a significant difference in how smoothly your day goes! Trust me, I know from experience. Learn from my mistakes! Here are some essential items to bring with you to school:
The Basics:
Your ID and Badge: Always carry your ID in case you need it and your badge if you have one. Pro tip: get a nice lanyard to secure your badge to. The district provided ones usually fall apart, and last thing you want is for your badge to fall off and never return.
Planner or Notebook: Keeping track of schedules and any important notes is crucial. A planner or notebook helps you stay organized and jot down any important details about the day, like who keeps being off-task.
Pens, Pencils, and Markers: Don’t rely on the teacher to provide you with these, as sometimes they hide them on purpose. Bringing your own supplies ensures you're never caught without the basics.
Food and Beverage:
Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important, especially if you're talking and moving around a lot. Just make sure you use your infrequent bathroom breaks wisely!
Insulated Coffee Cup: Make sure your much needed caffeine stays hot all morning long.
Lunch Box: Odds are, you’re carrying a decent amount of items into the school, make it easier on yourself and get a roomy lunchbox with a handle for easy transport and keeping your food insulated.
Silverware and Napkins: A lot of schools do not supply you with cutlery! Make sure you bring your own so you’re not wandering around trying to find a fork on your break. Have I done this? I’ll never tell.
Outfit and Shoes:
A Tote Bag or Backpack: You need something roomy and professional looking to store all these must haves for easy transport.
Comfortable Shoes: You'll likely be on your feet a lot, so comfortable shoes are a must.
Modest and Comfortable Outfit: Dress code for subs can vary from school to school, but when in doubt, it’s always better to be a little more professionally dressed than too casual. Just make sure whatever it is, it’s modest, appropiate, and comfy.
Bring a Jacket: Some classrooms are hot and some are freezing, prepare for either situation and bring an extra layer just in case.
Watch: With elementary classes, there are very scheduled out lesson plans, set timers on your watch and be prompt with the activities planned ahead.
Boredom Essentials:
Laptop or Tablet: If allowed, bringing your own device can help you pass the time while the kids are working (this will mostly apply to high school age.) Bring your charger! You may have to use a hotspot if you don’t have access to the schools wifi.
A Book or Crosswords: You may find yourself without any internet access and nothing to do, bring a book to read or crosswords to accomplish to help pass the time.
Classroom Management Tools:
Whistle or Attention-Getting Device: In most elementary classrooms, you’ll find it get’s very loud! A whistle or a similar tool can help you quickly gain students' attention, especially at recess.
Activities and/or Games: Have a few general activities in mind suitable for various age groups, just in case the regular teacher hasn't left enough for the kids to do. Ideas are trivia, 4 corners, heads up 7 up, would you rather questions, etc.
Reading Material: A good book or a selection of short stories can fill in gaps and keep students engaged.
Personal Items
Some Extras Just in Case: Tissues, Hand Sanitizer, Blue light glasses, Ear plugs (only for music class), Breath mints, Deodorant, Comb, Hair clip, Tampons/Pads.
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Being prepared with these essentials can help you feel confident and ready to handle whatever the day throws at you. Substitute teaching is an opportunity to make a positive impact on students, and having the right tools at your disposal can help you succeed! Oh, and God speed.
Thanks for reading!
xoxo,
Hannah
I’m Hannah!
A homebody who strives to make the world a little more beautiful through design, fashion, & art.
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