The Pros and Cons of Having Substitute Teachers By: Manuel Colorado

Teachers these days have more priorities to attend to unlike back then. However, before teachers can leave, they must get a substitute teacher to supervise their class while they are gone. According to Edutopia, “Most substitute plans include a clear assignment, but once students finish, the rest of the period can devolve into dead time.” While many students have their own opinions about substitutes, some don’t mind the substitute. Isabelle Woodyard junior at Hillgrove High School stated, “A substitute teacher can keep the class on track, make sure we stay safe and respectful, and sometimes bring a fresh attitude that makes the day less stressful.”

Many students tend to act up when there is a substitute. While there are some substitutes that do not care, there are some who do care and follow the plans the teachers left. According to the Helen Journal, “They step in when a teacher is absent and follow teacher lesson plans to actively teach classrooms full of learners. Students rely upon their substitute teachers to inspire them and bring joy to their learning experiences, as well as keep them safe.”  Jasmine Linwood a junior at Hillgrove High School said, “Being confident, clear about rules, fair, calm, and respectful. Subs who don’t yell but still stay firm usually manage the class best.”

While Substitutes follow the teacher’s directions some take their job very seriously. According to the Helen Journal, “Briefly introduce the timer at the start of the day. Let the students know that you’ll be setting the timer throughout the day so they can keep track of how much time they have left for certain activities.” While some substitutes can be retired teachers and still take their job seriously some students have their own opinions. Miranda Martinez a junior at Hillgrove High School stated,” Substitutes can remind students that their learning still matters, give clear instructions, and expect students to stay on task even without their regular teacher.” While substitutes are here to take teachers space, at the end of the day they are doing their jobs.