Yesterday and today I had more subbing days. The beginning of the week looked bleak for some work, but I got a text from my cooperative teacher from last semester saying he was going to be gone on Wednesday, and I should get the job. This meant I got to sub my familiar class again! It was a sweet day full of students being surprised at my being there and me being comfortable with the students and the content area. Such a good time.
Then today I got a call at 10:00 asking me to come in as soon as possible because a teacher had a family emergency. I accepted and came in midway through the day. Students were pretty respectful since their teacher had gone for a somber reason. However, by the end of the day, they were just anxious to get out for the day and enjoy the weather, which is understandable.
So, here is what I have learned about subbing throughout my short experience:
1. Freshman are obnoxious. I know, I'm sorry. I shouldn't generalize, and I shouldn't be that biased, but it's a proven fact. I taught freshman in college....equally obnoxious. It's just a hormonal imbalance that causes everything to seem hilarious, even squeaking a chair on the floor over and over and over (and over and over and over...hilarious, eh?).
2. "Street Cred" is important. Even if only one or two students know who you are, the whole class automatically respects you. Without that, you're a nobody that they test and test and test.
3. Plans are so important. I'm especially going to keep this in mind when I teach. I've had jobs where I had great instruction and all the information I needed for the day. On the other hand, I've had days where I knew very little of what was going on for the day, and I felt nervous and fumbly throughout the time. Students notice that as well. The more comfortable you are, the better a day it will be.
Those are just three tidbits I've learned during my time of subbing. I'll hopefully have a couple of more jobs before the end of the school year, but if not, ah well. It's been an interesting experience while it lasted.
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I love that you are subbing in Ames district. I still remember my favorite substitute teacher from 4th grade (maybe earlier), Mrs Milky. She was the best. You are those students Mrs Milky, I can feel it. Same district and everything!! :) Much love to you. I hope your classes treat you with respect. If not, tell them I'll be doing some Korean voodoo on them (if it even exists).
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