Substitute Teachers Lounge

Send us a textA substitute teacher reflects on how Generation Alpha differs from Gen Z and how teachers can adapt their methods accordingly. This light-hearted exploration of generational differences reveals that Alpha students are the first fully digital generation, with distinct learning preferences and world perspectives.• Fourth graders are split between Gen Z and Generation Alpha based on their birth years• Generation Alpha grew up entirely in the digital age, making them extremely tech-savvy by nature• Early childhood disruptions like COVID-19 have impacted social development and maturity• Alpha students show increased global awareness and environmental consciousness• They learn best in "gamified" environments that leverage digital engagement• Every generation faces criticism from those who came before—60s had "groovy," Gen Z has "slay"• Teachers must adapt to students rather than expecting students to conform to outdated methods• Despite concerns about entitlement or anxiety, Generation Alpha brings positive qualities to educationCheck out my Instagram where I break down Gen Z slang—I'll even play it for you at the end of this episode!

Send us a textHave you ever wondered what elementary school students really think about their teachers? In this unique episode, we flip the script by interviewing our youngest guests ever - students from kindergarten through fifth grade - to gain their unfiltered perspectives on education.Our first guest Anna, a fifth-grade graduate with straight A's, shares wisdom beyond her years about academic success. Her advice to take time for projects "even if you have to take time from recess" reveals the discipline that helped her excel. When asked about substitute teachers, Anna delivers perhaps the most insightful comment of the episode: substitutes sometimes struggle because "we learn a little different than they did whenever they were learning." This gentle observation highlights the generational gap in teaching methods that many educators face today.Younger voices join the conversation too. Eli, having just completed kindergarten, appreciates teachers who "help you learn about what you don't know" and substitutes who are "kind and sometimes you already know them." Meanwhile, five-year-old Zachary, entering kindergarten, reminds us of the social importance of school, mentioning friends and games as his highlights, along with "giving hugs" to teachers.The episode concludes with a heartwarming revelation - all three interviewees are the host's grandchildren, making this not just an educational exploration but a family affair. Listen now to hear these refreshing perspectives that remind us why connecting with students of all ages matters so much in education. What young student in your life has shared wisdom that surprised you? We'd love to hear your stories!

Send us a textEvery substitute teacher knows that what works in one classroom might fail spectacularly in another. This revelation hit me hard recently when several teaching strategies I'd successfully employed with teenagers created unexpected chaos among elementary students.

Send us a textThe countdown to summer vacation has begun, with only two weeks of school remaining. As substitute teachers prepare to wrap up another academic year, the temptation to make certain end-of-year decisions looms large – but not all of these choices serve your long-term interests as an educator.

Send us a textEver wonder what life is really like for substitute teachers navigating classrooms in today's educational landscape? This candid conversation with Felice, a substitute teacher from the Houston suburbs, pulls back the curtain on this vital yet often overlooked profession.Felice brings a remarkably diverse background to her role, having worked as a Department of Commerce geographic specialist and an air quality planner before eventually finding her way into education. After five years as a certified elementary teacher specializing in science, she transitioned to substitute teaching for the flexibility and variety it offers. Her unique perspective bridges the gap between full-time educators and substitutes, giving her valuable insights into effective classroom management and building meaningful connections with students.Throughout our discussion, Felice shares the genuine rewards of substitute teaching—from witnessing those "lightbulb moments" when concepts click for students to the freedoms of choosing when and where to teach. She doesn't shy away from the challenges either, addressing head-on the post-COVID behavioral issues many students exhibit, the frustration of missing lesson plans, and the need for flexibility when suddenly reassigned to different classrooms. Her story of improvising a 20-minute motivational talk when technology failed illustrates the quick thinking required in this role.What makes this episode particularly valuable is Felice's practical advice for both new and experienced substitutes. From how she maintains classroom order with brain teasers and proximity techniques to her philosophy of treating each assignment as a job interview, her strategies translate across grade levels and subject areas. Whether you're considering substitute teaching, are already in the classroom, or simply curious about education today, Felice's story offers both inspiration and actionable takeaways for creating positive learning environments despite the inherent challenges.

Send us a textBreaking my own rule of "never below third grade," I recently stepped into a first-grade classroom as a substitute teacher and discovered a whole new world of teaching challenges and rewards. The experience was so transformative that I couldn't wait to share what makes seven-year-olds uniquely different from other elementary grades.First graders operate in a heightened emotional state that manifests in three primary ways. First, there's the crying – whether from playground injuries, perceived slights from classmates, or frustration with classroom tasks. I quickly learned to crouch down to eye level, acknowledge their feelings, and gently guide them forward without dismissing their emotions. Then comes the "creative storytelling" when they make mistakes. While my high school technique of "you'll get in less trouble for telling the truth" works with teenagers, first graders haven't developed that level of maturity yet. Finally, there's the constant neediness – a forest of raised hands, endless questions, and students hovering around your desk from the moment they arrive until dismissal.What surprised me most wasn't these challenges but how much I enjoyed navigating them. There's something refreshingly authentic about working with children who haven't yet learned to mask their feelings or needs. The connections formed are different than with older students – more immediate and unfiltered. Walking through the cafeteria to find students from various classes excitedly waving created a special kind of joy that made the challenges worthwhile. So much so that I immediately scheduled more first-grade assignments in the coming weeks.For substitute teachers who typically stick with older grades, I encourage you to step outside your comfort zone. You might discover, as I did, that the youngest learners offer unique rewards that change your entire perspective on teaching. And who knows? Maybe my upcoming kindergarten assignment (in my grandson's class, no less!) will provide even more insights for next week's episode.

Send us a textSubstitute teaching comes with unexpected social dynamics that we rarely discuss openly. What happens when students loudly proclaim you're their "favorite substitute" while another sub stands nearby? Should you feel proud or guilty when teachers request you instead of other substitutes? Today's episode dives into these delicate situations and explores the sometimes awkward relationships between substitute teachers.I share personal experiences from my recent months in the classroom - moments when students approach me in hallways asking which class I'm teaching, teachers who express their preference for me over their assigned substitute, and the subtle (or not-so-subtle) tension these interactions create with other substitutes. Rather than feeling guilty about these moments of recognition, I've learned to appreciate them while remaining sensitive to how they might affect my substitute colleagues.The reality is that substitute teaching can sometimes feel like a competition, with certain subs developing reputations as the "cool" or "preferred" options. Like my past experiences as a volleyball referee, I've noticed how quickly this can create a hierarchy that breeds resentment. Instead of participating in this dynamic, I suggest focusing on building positive relationships with students, teachers, AND fellow substitutes. Remember that different personality types can be equally effective in the classroom - your authentic approach matters more than trying to be the most popular sub in the building.Looking ahead to summer, I'm excited to announce a new interview series featuring substitute teachers from our Facebook community! We'll gather perspectives from across the country (maybe even worldwide) to learn from each other's experiences. Make sure to follow the podcast so you don't miss these upcoming conversations with fellow subs who understand exactly what you're experiencing in the classroom.

Send us a textWhat happens when students mistreat each other, and how should substitute teachers respond? This deeply reflective episode explores the delicate art of addressing student conflicts while maintaining dignity for everyone involved.Drawing unexpected connections between spring break viewing experiences—from 1970s home movies to the Minecraft film—Greg Collins shares powerful insights about witnessing and addressing student mistreatment. The episode reveals surprisingly effective intervention strategies tailored to different age groups, from the simple yet profound question "Do you feel good about yourself right now?" for elementary students to the strategic chair-placement technique that works wonders with high schoolers.

Send us a textTeachers and substitute teachers never truly turn off their "teacher brain," even during spring break. Like comedians and songwriters, educators are constantly collecting experiences, images, and stories that can engage students and improve classroom learning.• Spring break provides opportunities to gather visual aids that capture student attention better than lectures alone• Personal photos from places like the Alamo or experiences like holding a sloth create immediate student engagement• Sharing vacation mishaps (like losing passports or falling in public) teaches students that everyone makes mistakes• Real-world examples and personal stories create memorable learning moments students remember• Visual elements help regain attention when students inevitably get distracted• Even unplanned vacation experiences can become valuable classroom resourcesKeep your mind open during spring break. Look for photos, stories, and objects that might enhance your teaching—but remember to enjoy your well-deserved time off too.

Send us a textFinding the sweet spot between following a regular teacher's lesson plans and bringing your authentic self to the classroom—that's the balance every substitute teacher must strike. Drawing from seven years of substitute teaching experience across elementary, middle, and high school classrooms, I explore when to stick to the script and when to trust your teaching instincts.