Your Hands-On Guide to Thriving as a Substitute Every day, substitute teachers walk into unfamiliar classrooms, often with little preparation time and high expectations to maintain a productive learning environment. This highly illustrated guide recognizes that substitute teachers are critical to student success and deserve practical tools that help them succeed, not just survive. From preparing before the bell rings to leading engaging lessons and managing those final moments of class, this book covers everything substitute teachers need to ensure learning continuity and make a real difference in students' lives. Welcome to Substitute Teaching! provides a comprehensive toolkit designed specifically for guest educators, featuring: Visual learning aids and infographics that enhance understanding and can be used as classroom strategies Videos showcasing successful substitute teachers sharing practical tips and classroom demonstrations Essential checklists and templates that reduce cognitive load and increase daily success Question-based organization addressing the most common concerns new substitute teachers face This resource ensures consistent, engaging learning experiences that keep students on track-no matter who's in the classroom.
Douglas Fisher is professor and chair of educational leadership at San Diego State University and a teacher leader at Health Sciences High and Middle College. Previously, Fisher was an early intervention teacher and elementary school educator. In 2022, he was inducted into the Reading Hall of Fame by the Literacy Research Association. He has published numerous articles on reading and literacy, differentiated instruction, and curriculum design, as well as books such as Your Introduction to PLC+, Welcome to Teaching, How Feedback Works, Teaching Reading, and RIGOR Unveiled. Fisher loves being an educator and hopes to share that passion with others. Nancy Frey is a professor in educational leadership at San Diego State University and a teacher leader at Health Sciences High and Middle College. Her published titles include The Courage to Learn, The Art and Science of Coaching, How Scaffolding Works, and The Illustrated Guide to Visible Learning. Frey is a credentialed special educator, reading specialist, and administrator in California and learns from teachers and students every day. Kierstan Barbee holds a doctoral degree in educational leadership and literacy from the University of Houston. She brings 20 years of education-related experience in PreK-12 settings. She has served as a secondary English Language Arts teacher, academic coach, and professional development supervisor in urban districts as well as a project manager of assessment for learning, which involved creating system-wide professional learning programming for central staff and campuses that promoted the spread of research- and evidence informed practices to maximize teaching and learning. Through an emphasis on relationship-building and human-centered design principles, Kierstan has coached PreK-12 principals, teachers, and district leaders on pedagogical practices that promote equity and student agency in learning. Sarah Ortega, EdD, is a credentialed bilingual teacher and administrator in California. She served as a classroom educator for 19 years before moving into various leadership positions at the site and district level. In 2023, Sarah was recognized as the Chula Vista Elementary School District Teacher of the Year. Her teaching videos have been featured in professional development training and educator magazines. She is a professional learning consultant and works with schools and districts to design and implement learning solutions that support the emotional, behavioral, and instructional needs of students. She is a co-author of Teaching Foundational Skills to Adolescents and Instructional Strategies to Move Learning Forward. Taryl Hansen, NBCT, Ed.D is a visual practitioner and the creator of Frame the Message Ink, LLC (framethemessageink.com). She is an associate trainer for Cognitive CoachingSM and holds a doctorate in Teacher Leadership and Innovation from Arizona State University. Taryl has been trained by Thinking Collaborative and Grove Consultants International, leaders in the fields of learning and cognition. As a live graphic recorder and illustrator, Taryl works internationally to create vibrant and engaging visuals that bring essential elements to the forefront for learners, enhancing retention, driving engagement, and inspiring learners to collaborate in more meaningful ways.
Acknowledgments About the Authors About the Illustrator Introduction Section 1: Before the Bell Rings Section 2: The First 5 Minutes Section 3: Leading the Learning Section 4: The Last Few Minutes Section 5: Beyond the Bell References Index
As a school principal, I know firsthand how critical a skilled, prepared substitute teacher is to maintaining learning momentum. Welcome to Substitute Teaching! is an outstanding, practical guide that equips guest teachers with the tools, strategies, and confidence to step into any classroom and make a real difference. Its clear organization, actionable tips, and focus on both relationships and routines make it an invaluable resource for anyone committed to supporting students. This book doesn't just prepare substitutes to 'fill in, but it empowers them to lead with purpose. -- Carl Blythe * Mary Castle Elementary School, IN * As someone who has subbed in classrooms across different grade levels, I know how unpredictable the day can be. And whether you're stepping into the classroom for the first time or you're a seasoned substitute teacher, Welcome to Substitute Teaching! is a terrific resource, packed with practical tips, clever strategies, and real-world wisdom that you can actually use the moment you enter the campus! It's thoughtfully organized, easy to navigate, and brimming with "Pro Tips" that are super practical! From classroom management hacks to handy templates, to links to videos and other invaluable resources, this handbook is a must-have in your substitute toolkit. -- Marceline Sciuto * San Diego Unified School District * Finally a guide that empowers substitute teachers to be a key player in a student's learning journey! This book bridges theory and practice, showing how to become the kind of substitute teacher who moves learning forward, motivates students, and keeps them highly engaged. It is a practical guide filled with tangible ideas and clear step by step instructions, offering strategies you can use in every moment of the day. Each section closes with a helpful recap, making it a resource you can return to again and again. From making a strong first impression to giving students a well timed "substitute teacher shout out", this guide highlights the importance of continuity in routines and structures. What sets it apart is that it not only shares what to do but explains why it matters, helping substitute teachers grow into professional educators who make a lasting impact. A must read for anyone stepping into the classroom, whether for a day or a career! -- Kelly An, Ed.D. * Long Beach Unified School District, CA * Welcome to Substitute Teaching! is a practical guide for districts and substitute teachers. It provides checklists, ready-to-use activities, strategies and supports that make effective instruction easier to implement. Whether in the classroom for a day or longer, this resource will build clarity, collaboration, and confidence from a substitute's arrival on campus to the end of the school day. -- John Graf * CESA6, WI *
