Since I couldn’t get a full-time teaching position in the fall, I signed up to substitute teach for the county I live in. I have been subbing pretty regularly since September now. Granted, there are some issues that occur because the students don’t know me and I’m there for only a day. However, I have found that being prepared with the right materials can definitely help. Plus, it also helps that I actually love my job. I thought I would share with you my substitute teacher supply list which is a list of stuff I keep ready to go.
* Tote Bag – I’m actually using the Vera Bradley Va Va Bloom Go Round Tote Bag that I reviewed last year. It’s pretty and it holds all of my stuff from this substitute teacher supply list nicely. A high school student even commented on it because she loves Vera Bradley.
* Notebook – I try to take copious notes throughout the day, just in case. At the high school, I write stuff down for each period (even if it’s just a simple “all present”) and for the elementary level, I try to write things as they happen. At end of the day/week, I combine my notes to write up a letter to the teacher I’m filling in for. I also keep a running list of the days I’ve worked (including place and teacher).
* Writing Utensils – I need pens/pencils to write my notes and letter. I’ve also found it useful to carry around some chalk and dry erase markers as I write down the assignments on the board (along with my name and the date) for the students. Occasionally, the teacher doesn’t have any out. So, I carry some, just in case. Also, some students may not come to class prepared with a pencil/eraser.
* Food – I always have a bottle of water in my bag along with a snack and some gum.
* Beauty supplies – This includes a pony tail holder, deodorant, lip balm, hand sanitizer/lotion, etc.
* Book – It can be boring to sit in a classroom without anything to do for 50 minutes (during planning period). So, I always carry around a book.
* Money – I always pack a lunch if I’m going to work all day. However, sometimes I’m scheduled to work the first half of day and get asked for the second. So, it’s nice to have some money for lunch.
Now you have my substitute teacher supply list. What do you think of it? Do you have any suggestions for me? What should I add to my substitute teacher supply list?
Heidi says
I try to take a back up activity in case the teacher’s plans don’t fill the time. Also I take an open mind. I’m re-certifying to teach, so I’m looking for the best ideas to take with me when I teach. Subbing is always interesting and often quite fun.
Pam says
This is a great list. All of these will come in very handy for a substitute teacher.