How to Prepare Lessons for an Elementary Substitute Teacher

It's inevitable that a teacher must miss work at some point during the school year. Whether it's a planned day away from the classroom or an emergency, the wise elementary teacher leaves backup lessons that any substitute teacher can easily find and follow.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Keep a list of the students posted near the door and on your desk. Of course these lists can serve other purposes, but it helps a substitute in your elementary classroom to see a list of the names of their students for the day. If possible, post pictures of the students with the lists so the substitute can put a name with a face.

2. Post the classroom rules in a visible location. Just like you expect your students to follow the rules, the substitute teacher wants the students to do the same. A list helps her know exactly what the classroom expectations are.

3. Make a copy of your daily routine and post it in a visible place near your desk. That way a substitute teacher can easily know when to switch from reading to math to recess. Remember to change this list if your schedule changes during the school year.

4. Set your lesson plans in an obvious place on your desk. That way a substitute can easily find them. Even if you turn in lesson plans to the elementary principal's office, there are no guarantees that the principal can find them.

5. Let a coworker know where you keep everything. If you have a para-professional who helps you, they should know where to find lesson plans and supplies. If you don't have a para, tell the teacher in the next room. You can return the favor the next time she's gone.

6. Prepare at least one day of generic lessons suitable for your elementary class. Bundle everything needed to teach those lessons in a folder or container. Label and store it in plain sight. That way, if all else fails, the substitute teacher has something to teach. Remember to change the lessons after they are used.