How do substitute teachers gain respect?

Inside: Suggestions for how you can gain respect as a substitute teacher.

How do you get children to respect you as a substitute?

First, be prepared. Arrive early, know the lesson plans, and familiarize yourself with the classroom rules and routines. This shows that you value the students’ learning and take your role seriously.

When you introduce yourself to the class, establish clear expectations for students while you are in the classroom. Communicate your expectations for behavior and academic engagement from the beginning. Be firm but fair in enforcing these expectations consistently throughout the day.

Be confident! You know what you are doing, let the students see that. Display confidence in your abilities as a substitute teacher. Speak clearly, maintain a good posture, and project your voice to command attention and establish authority.

Finally, make sure to maintain professionalism. Dress professionally, use appropriate language, and adhere to the school’s policies and procedures. Definitely, avoid engaging in gossip or speaking negatively about the regular teacher or students.

For more about how to gain respect as a substitute teacher, read this blog post about how to be an effective substitute teacher. 

How do I make a good impression as a substitute teacher?

As students arrive at the beginning of the day after lunch or recess, greet them at the door. This lets them know that you are there for them and that you are interested in them! 

Throughout the day, work to build rapport with the students by showing genuine interest in their well-being and learning. Engage in conversations, listen attentively, and address their concerns or questions.

Also, be sure to learn students’ correct names and use them. Don’t follow the example of the Substitute Teacher Key and Peele sketch. 

How do you control a class as a sub?

Good classroom management is key as a substitute teacher. Treat all students fairly and respectfully, regardless of their behavior or academic abilities. Show empathy and understanding while maintaining appropriate boundaries.

Substitute teachers need to adapt to the classroom dynamics and be flexible in adjusting their teaching strategies to meet the needs of the students. 

Use positive reinforcement with students. Recognize and praise students’ efforts, accomplishments, and positive behaviors. This encourages a positive classroom atmosphere and motivates students to stay engaged and behave appropriately.

Try our Word of the Day Reward Toolkit! (Or grab it from TPT) You pick a word, it could be the name or mascot of the school or something seasonal. Throughout the day, the class earns letters to spell out the word. If the class finishes spelling the word, they earn a reward! 

How do I gain respect as a substitute teacher from other teachers?

The best way to gain respect as a substitute teacher from other teachers, especially the regular classroom teacher that you are stepping in for, is to show your willingness to collaborate with them and follow their instructions.

We asked teachers what they expect from their subs, in this blog post, and almost every teacher said that they want substitute teachers to follow the sub plans as outlined. 

Definitely, before leaving, provide a written summary of the day’s activities, any issues that arose, and suggestions for the regular teacher. This demonstrates your commitment to continuity and support for the student’s learning. The more notes you leave, the better. Teachers want to know what happened in their classroom while they were gone. 

How can I be a successful substitute teacher?

• Act and dress professionally
• Learn good classroom management techniques
• Follow the teacher’s directions- don’t forget to leave notes!
• Enforce school policies
• Establish a good rapport with the students

Remember that gaining respect takes time and consistency. By demonstrating professionalism, empathy, and a genuine interest in the student’s well-being, you can establish yourself as a successful substitute teacher.