Fun in First Grade.....

I subbed for a class today that I was in early in the school year.  They all remembered me and were happy to see me.  I have known the teacher for years and so she just left when I got there.  It was a half day job and they were headed to lunch.   They came back, I read them a story, and they went to music.  They did a little writing and then it was free time and time to go home.  It's not often that I get lobbed these softball days lately. It was super nice.  The kids were a little chatty, but great for a sunny Friday afternoon. 

Sign In - Sign Out

I've made my own sign in and out sheet.  I know that kids, older ones especially, want to try to take advantage of a sub teacher.  I look nice, and that can definetly be to  my personal disadvantage in subbing.  I made a sign in and out sheet that I use in every classroom and only allow one student to be gone at a time.  I also leave it for the teacher.  It's a good indicator of how long students are goine, etc.

It looks something like this.....

Ms D's Sign-Out Sheet

Name              Time Out      Time In        Reason For Leaving

______________      _____         _____          ___________________


It sits at the desk in front of me, so that they have to come up and ask before just walking out of the room.

Kids really want you to be one of those "nice" subs that just let them screw around and go anywhere and do anything.  There are plenty of those around.  But I may want a job in this district and I know that those subs get a reputation that is less than favorable.  Their behavior also makes it MUCH more difficult for subs who are actually trying to maintain a little continuity and do the job that we have been asked to do.



I'm Watching!

 

Middle School

You haven't heard much from me lately.  I have been subbing in Middle School quite a bit.  My mom taught me that if I don't have anything nice to say, I shouldn't say anything at all!  So I have been quiet!

I don't know what happens when kids hit middle school that makes them.....not so nice, but I haven't been having a lot of luck lately.  I think I am going to take a little Middle School break.

Mysterious Middle School Mind

I have learned a few things though.  When a teacher's subject is listed on the registration software, you should double check it on the school website.  There are certain jobs I don't feel comfortable subbing for, and apparently I am not the only one, because a district I work for hides those class titles.  Instead of "Shop" or "Industrial Arts"  they just say "Art".  And then you walk into a room where 13 year olds are using band saws and drill presses.  I know how to use power tools, but I am NOT comfortable allowing kids to use them in my presence.  I will not be responsible for the loss of limbs.

I have also realized that certain MS teachers have jobs listed quite often and even though subbing is SUPER competitive around here, these jobs stay up for hours, sometimes even days, when most jobs are gone the minute they are posted.  I have snagged a few and am learning which ones to avoid!  I guess that is why this district, which I just got on with, added a bunch of new subs.