5 Ways To Support Substitute Teachers

A recent National Center of Education Statistics representative survey of schools across the country also found that 72 percent of public schools had higher teacher absenteeism rates than before the pandemic. Substitute teachers will continue to be needed in schools across the country. Supporting substitute teachers is crucial for maintaining a positive and productive school environment. Principals can take several steps to make substitute teachers feel valued and supported. That will keep them coming back to your site to fill your vacancies.

Here are five ways principals can support substitute teachers:

1. Create a Welcoming and Inclusive Environment: Ensure that substitute teachers are warmly welcomed and introduced to the school staff. This can be done through a brief orientation, where the principal or a designated staff member explains the school’s culture, routines, emergency procedures, and where essential resources and materials are located. Encourage regular teachers to leave helpful notes and lesson plans to aid substitutes in their daily tasks.
2. Provide Clear Communication: Establish open and clear lines of communication with substitute teachers. Provide them with a reliable point of contact they can approach with any questions or concerns when they are on campus. Keeping substitutes informed about upcoming events, special requirements, and changes in schedules will help them feel more confident and integrated into the school community.
3. Professional Development Opportunities: Offer professional development opportunities specifically tailored for substitute teachers. Since they will continue to be a regular fixture on campuses, it is vital that they receive training in order for them to be at their best. These sessions can cover effective classroom management techniques, instructional strategies, educational technology, and ways to handle various classroom scenarios. Investing in their professional growth will empower substitutes to handle challenges with competence.
4. Recognition and Appreciation: Acknowledge the contributions of substitute teachers to the school community. Celebrate their efforts publicly through announcements, newsletters, or recognition events. Principal’s positive feedback and appreciation can go a long way in boosting morale and encouraging a sense of belonging. Again, this will encourage them to keep coming back to your school.
5. Supportive Staff Culture: Foster a supportive and respectful culture among the staff members. Encourage regular teachers to collaborate and assist substitute teachers when needed. Creating a positive atmosphere where everyone works together as a team will encourage substitutes to feel more comfortable seeking help and integrating into the school’s daily routines.

Overall, treating substitute teachers with respect and support sends a strong message that they are valued members of the school community, and this can lead to increased job satisfaction, improved performance in the classroom, and the desire to continue to accept jobs at your school when the phone rings at 5am.

The Principal’s Desk was founded by Dr. David Franklin. Dr. Franklin is an award winning school administrator, education professor, curriculum designer, published author and presenter at national and international education conferences. He is also the co-author of “Can Every School Succeed” and the upcoming release: “Advice From The Principal’s Desk”.