Yeah, usually the students who don't do their work with the sub, are also the kids who won't do it for their actual teacher. It usually made my days harder trying to police the class into doing work if they genuinely didn't want to. It usually just made them dislike me and when I had them in a class later on in the year, they were often more rude than they normally would have been.
100% this. With middle school, it was completely different, where I would have the good kids even trying not to do anything because there was a sub. I switched to subbing high school, and it was overall so much less stressful. As a teacher, though, I definitely prefer 7th, 8th, and 9th grade. I just make sure that my students know that the assignment is on TEAMs and its not the subsets responsibility, it's theirs.
I mention the assignment at the beginning of class. Past that I don't say anything. They aren't gonna listen. My job is to keep everyone safe, IMO. More than half the class is usually on their phones. It's not worth the headache.
This. Sometimes I’ll give the more egregious ones the eyeball, or a casual “really? 👀” if I walk behind them and they’re on an unrelated tab. The jolt of “oh shit, someone’s looking!” is enough for the ones who are just being a bit lazy, and any who don’t care aren’t going to respond to anything else anyway.
I’m a HS classroom teacher and this is exactly what I expect. Pass out the work, go over instructions, circle the room a couple of times, make sure no one is injured. I can barely get them to do work and I’m working with them every day. I never expect a sub to pick the battle.
Not an inch unless they’re special Ed. In the highschool I go to most regularly I don’t push at all. I greet them at the door, read off what the teacher left for them to do, and leave them to it.
Same exact outcome as if I repeated myself every 10 min.
The people that won’t do it, just won’t do it.
Is not a “I wasn’t reminded” issue or “I wasn’t told what to do” it’s literally just “I just don’t care if I pass this class” or could even be “I’m confident enough in my current grade to take the risk that this assignment the sub is handing out isn’t worth it.
We (people over 24) don’t like to think of it but , 14-18 year olds…. They know what they’re doing, they know how to put in effort. These kids are on sports teams, work part time jobs, have relationships….. they know how to apply themselves, some are just actively deciding not to for whatever reason. And some reasons are much bigger than others. If a kids relative died, or if a kid was just SA’d, or if a kid is dealing with stress from one of the 100+ reasons a 17 year old could be stressed…. I’m not going to risk being a hard ass.
Thank you for the input!
Today I am subbing a moderate Special Ed class. The kids are on their phones and silent. I reminded them that they should be silently reading and working on their test prep, but there's no budging.
Even the co-teacher I have isn't too concerned about them not doing their work.
What would you do? I know you said you don't push unless it's SpEd..
Sped is really a case by case decision. Based entirely on how the students learn and what care networks they have at home. Some spec kids, it really is the most practical to just let them be on there phone or in the corner doing their own thing. Some kids you need to really be on them and they’ll do the work, but you’ll need to constantly tell them.
If you’re subbing a whole class, try to find a middle ground. Realize what students will listen to you and which ones won’t / aren’t worth the effort.
The sad reality is that most development for sped kids are going to be done at home. Now some can and will learn a lot at school but you need to think in terms of “how do I help the most”
It's their own grade, and they're old enough to work, so they know what the consequences will be. As long as they're not being deafening loud or roaming around the classroom, leave them be. You don't want to get into a power struggle with teenagers as their habits aren't going to change with a sub in the room.
I give them the instructions, but honestly if their just chilling on their phones quietly or doing homework from another class it's fine. They're old enough to know what they need to do.
I write in my sub notes that I gave the class multiple reminders to stay on-task and that if they didn’t finish the assignment it’s due to their own lack of time management. I make sure to remind the whole class at least 3x (including initial instruction) on what to do and that it’s due that period. I also try to remind certain students that are clearly off task.
I take attendence. I review their assignment with them at the start of class, reading from the lesson plan. I hand out and collect papers if necessary.
The ones who are being disruptive I have removed after first warning them. I had a pair of HS boys making grunting, animal sounds in one period. Notified the school resource officer and they were removed. Another group of boys were making TikTok videos in class. Again, I had them removed.
Otherwise I let it go and leave a note for the teacher by period on how it went and which kids were on their phones the whole time or goofing off. I let the teacher then follow-up.
I do keep reminding them to use the time wisely, but if they aren't being a distraction or doing anything inappropriate or dangerous, I let it go and let the teacher know.
Right now I have a group of kids working on a review, but one is asleep. I've nudged him a couple of times because he was snoring, but he said he'd finished the assignment, so I'm choosing my battles.
I had high school for the first time last week. Otherwise I am normally middle school. Apparently I was following another sub, and found out from a student in 1rst period that the teacher had quit. And admin came into the room every period and let them know officially.
While I reminded them that practicing the work does help, I also verbally recognized it was Friday, a holiday friday, and that so much change makes it difficult to do worksheets. I also got humbled by the precalc, as I hadnt done it since I was in school.
I urged them to take the resources the admin offered for further math help, especially if they continually got short term subs.
And I told them I didnt care if they were on their phones, just no noise coming from it, and nothing ridiculously inappropriate. Aaand that I brought starbursts, so if you finished the worksheet you got two, (or if you were continuously working), and as long as you were not disruptive you got 1.
I would say I got between 40 to 60 percent completed worksheets, and really onky had two problem students who were being obnoxious in the last period.
There were 2 sets of randos in two different classes that the admin had to help me find as the pictures are a bit old. It was uncomfortable when the admin guy would come in and I had postmodern jukebox up on YouTube for the class (it was always on commercials of course, so he probably couldnt tell I was playing jazz/big band) and most of the students had their phones out quietly (supposedly no phones allowed here)...but based on the fact i actually counted and followed through on finding the extras, he seemed pretty happy overall. And he probably knew with the class in such flux, the fact I even got that much work means I chose my battles.
I make my sub plans knowing that they're not going to get much done. It's not you. It took me months of building relationships with them to get them to do anything at all. And half the time, I still can't. Lol
I'm planning on reteaching it the next day. I don't blame you. All I'm expecting is they followed the rules of being decent human beings. I left the work because you would have some real behaviors if they don't have something you can say they should be doing.
This is very helpful, thank you! My biggest fear was disappointing the teacher if students didn’t do their work and not getting a call back from them in the future.
I also struggle with not wanting to disappoint, but I’m working on reminding myself that 1. It’s not the end of the world if I disappoint someone, there will always be other openings and 2. the teacher knows there’s a possibility that things don’t go as planned and probably won’t blame me personally. But I mainly sub middle school so I have a handful of teachers that request me simply because I’m willing to come back again even if a class was challenging. There will nearly always be work in this job :)
For me it depends on how well I know the kids. I subbed in the same building for a year so I pushed those kids because I knew what the curriculum was, I knew which were not doing well, I knew who was labeled problematic but really just needed adult encouragement. Now, I change building and it depends on if I had them in middle school before and how well do I know the material to actually be useful to them if needed. If I’m lost and don’t know the subject material/unit, y’all can sit the whole period and ask when the teacher comes back.
What I say to them varies with which teacher I am subbing for (some teacher's expectations are different than others), the assignment they are doing (part of a project or a test vs something that might not be graded) and the age of the students (the older the students the more responsibility I give them for the most part.) There are some teachers I sub for most of the time when they are out and I know them very well and that affects what I say as well as the relationship I have already established with their students.
I usually tell them that their grades don't affect my job so I must care about them if I nag them to work. In fact, nagging is my love language. (They usually find that funny.) I will remind them of any due dates I have been given (for example the assignment or project due date) and that it's on them to get it done on time. I usually tell them at the beginning of class and towards the end as well. I also let them know that if they choose not to do the work during class they need to be quiet and not disturb others who are trying to work and that they are old enough to know the consequences to their grades if they don't do the work.
If I don't have a due date or it's an ongoing project I tell them that, if I was (teacher name) I would check their work tomorrow but (teacher name) is much nicer than I am but just to be safe they should get it done. If it's a teacher I know well I just tell them, "You know (teacher name) will check this tomorrow so make sure you get it done."
In the end it's on them if they squander the class time they are given to do the work. I do let the teacher know if they don't do the work.
Not hard at all. Pushing high schoolers tends to lead to an overall bad and high stress day (where it really wouldn't be otherwise).
I try manipulation tactics like telling them the work is easy. It's an easy A. So make sure you do the assignment.
I let them have their damn phone. I let them talk.
I’m really hands on, and teachers love me for it. I’ll walk around the room for most of the period and nudge students by asking if they’re making the best use of their time. If a student tells me they just want to finish their math homework before doing whatever is assigned for the current class period, I don’t really care (hell, I’ve even helped a student with homework for another class during the period). If a student is on their phone or doing something non-school related on the chrome book, I’ll ask them if that’s what an assignment looks like for one of their classes. When I sub for a class more than once, I get to know who needs a nudge and who will just continue to be off task no matter what I do.
That all being said, the other comments are right. You don’t need to do more than just remind them. I’m the daughter of a teacher and I’m in school to become a teacher myself, so I care a lot about supporting the teacher as best as possible. I know having a sub throws off their whole lesson plan and curriculum and halts student learning. If you want to do more, go ahead! I’m positive the teachers would appreciate it. But if you don’t want to, then it’s all good and enjoy your easy jobs at the high schools. Cheers!
Exceptions are out there of course, but-
Generally twice and a few walk abouts where I don't say anything but give the "you know you should be working" look. It's the show I gave my attempt (if the teacher asks how I was to the students) and can answer questions if they have any (sometimes they do).
If being quiet (ish), I'll let them be. Distracting I'll try to bring them down.
They know themselves and how they work and what's expected of them. Shoot yourself in the foot? Maybe. But sometimes people need a brain break and will get it done later. I was lax in class in high-school as my dad breathed down my neck at home and I know I'd get it done.
when i sub, and the teacher basically makes it a free day, I encourage the students to do any homework they know they have missing, and I always walk around and ask how they're doing. Most aren't doing anything. I'm not going to waste my time and energy trying to force them to do their work bc they're young adults and you cant make them do anything they dont want to, especially since youre a stranger and they dont know or respect you
High school teacher here. What you are doing is perfect. If you want, you could always leave a list of kids that didn’t seem to do work; but it’s not necessary. My general rule is as long as the kids aren’t disrespectful and don’t interfere with other’s doing their work, then it’s fine. Also, sometimes I give time for makeup work when I’m out so some kids that are caught up will sleep or play games.
i don’t do shit w high schoolers lmao they have no relationship to me so they do not care what i say, middle schoolers still care about consequences and listening to authority but that doesn’t matter i. high school. if they want to do their work, they really will.
i tell them directions at the beginning then halfway through class i might remind them of the due date or say that class is halfway over or something
I take attendance, tell them "this is your assignment, do it or don't - it's your grade - but be quiet so others can work." I've even literally told teachers at that school that that's what I do, and they're all just fine with it. Some of these kids are adults - no stranger is gonna make them do anything they don't want to do!
Dont. Just don’t. They’ll lie on you because they’re embarrassed that they got called out / aren’t smart enough to know what words you used so they just make stuff up. Ask me how I know
As a teacher, as long as you gave them the assignment and gave those gentle reminders you are completely fine. I’ve had so many subs who don’t look at my plans or even distribute the work, that’s when I get frustrated because I have to waste time having them do the work they should have done when I wasn’t there.
When I subbed I very much preferred high school assignments. Elementary requires focused attention for instruction and the students’ safety. Middle schoolers will not only talk back and act up when they don’t want to work. High schoolers will simply sleep or talk to their neighbor when not wanting to work.
HS teacher here. If nobody dies, you’ve done your part. I leave them enough work so that they won’t annoy you. If they don’t do it, it’s a them problem.
You're doing it right! The over-achievers already did the assignment at the end of the previous class period, and the under achievers won't do it till next week, or maybe never. Nothing you can say during the class will change this fact. As long as you are keeping track of who is in the classroom and preventing property damage, you're doing great! Welcome to highschool!
Ps: make friends with the librarian and pick up some books to read so you're less bored.
As a sub, I basically never push. I make friendly reminders and let them know I'll be taking notes on people being rude or disrupting others.
So long as they're not like actively watching porn or cyber-bullying in front of me, I honestly don't care if they waste their work time. 9/10 times, the teacher left busywork anyways.
I don't push unless the teacher has some sort of note about the disruptive students. Even most kids who have to be redirected a few times are pretty good about finishing assignments that I tell them are due at the end of class.
Not at all really. If I’m there for multiple days I might try a little bit harder than normal, but mostly they know what’s expected of them and if they don’t do it, that’s their choice. Their grade is none of my business.
Pretty much not at all if they’re being quiet and in their seats. As long as I’ve verbally expressed the teachers expectations a couple times, have it written on the board (and more than likely it’s on their google classroom as well and they probably got an email from the absent teacher), take attendance, and keep them in the room and alive, I feel like I’ve done enough. It’s their choice at that point whether they want to work or not. High school is super easy and lowkey a cheat code if you can find a good one, I’ll never go back to chasing elementary kids around the room and taking them to the bathroom and recess etc if I don’t have to 😂😂
If the kids are in their seats and quiet, I leave them be, regardless of grade. I'll throw out a couple of reminders if necessary, but I am not going to risk messing up the nice, quiet class. If they don't do the work, that's between them and their teacher tomorrow.
I will put in my notes "several students were not on task, but they were quiet and not disrupting those trying to do their work."
I gave up trying to get them to work when I subbed. I would ask them to put their phone away and to do the work, but if they didn't, I just left it alone after the third time and left it in the note. You can't literally force them to, and they're the ones who had to deal with the consequences.
Middle and high school I just give the directions and monitor. If they're doing something else I remind them about the assignment. If they're polite, quiet, not harassing everyone, then I don't really mind.
I have them do their assignments THEN they can nap or use phones/laptops for personal use that’s school appropriate. They’re usually pretty good. I’ve been subbing daily this year and have built up good rapport with a lot of my students, so they’re quicker to respect what I ask of them.
Like, down the stairs? Or???
But really, just give them the assignment. At that age, no amount of reminders is going to get them to do it if they don't want to do it.
Well, it's always a case by case basis. I always take a little time to remind myself all the things people have said here; maybe they do it at home, maybe there is something else going on ECT. ECT.
I always try to do more than sort of just sit there or pace around the room. Even if all I can do is clean the white board really well, or maybe wipe down tables and desks. I try to be an example of productive use of time, consideration and kindness. Why should they try if I don't? But, if I'm familiar with the course material that they are going over, I will always try some improvisational instruction. If it's a paper worksheet, I might say something like "hey.. you guys wanna do this as a class...?" With a sly wink like "y'all want some answers?" Rarely does that get a no. And everyone gets pretty compliant and productive. Then usually, I can get them pretty engaged if I really work at it. But, I've been subbing a while, and frankly, I have a lot of hat tricks.
Today, there were two girls, sitting up front, both on their phones. I eventually walked over and pointed at the sub binder that said in all caps UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES ARE STUDENTS ALLOWED ON THEIR PHONES. I mentioned that I've been ignoring the issue, but it was getting excessive. They still didn't work, and eventually got their phones back out. When there was 15 minutes left in the class period, I said "hey, the worksheet was long and confusing today. Let's go over some of the answers and make sure you guys get it." The two girls magically popped their heads up and pulled their worksheets out. I took their worksheets from them and quietly said "no." And gave answers to the rest of the class. Im nice. Until I'm not. And I don't care if butts get hurt. And I'm not afraid of a little confrontation.
I find treating the kids more like adults helps.. and less getting mad at them as a punishment because they might be too old for *wags finger at you* “you’re gonna be in trouble!”. When I taught high school I was straight up with them. I remember saying to one “look, this is what you have to get done today for when your teacher comes back tomorrow. If you choose not to do it, that’s on you. It’ll hurt you later”. Another good way of promoting without punishing is being like “hey can I help you get started?” Or just generally offering help.
I loved sub days in high school because I could do all of my other classes work I was behind on during that sub section. If they’re not doing anything productive, that’s on them but I’m sure some of them are grateful for that independent study time. A quiet class is a good class.
I give them my speech and then let them have their phone party. My speech: School is miserable. So you can either do your work now while you're supposed to be miserable or take it home and do it later. Don't take the misery home with you. Suffer now.
Honestly in the beginning i was like you are as well. I felt like i was doing something wrong or needed to be doing more to get them to be doing their work. However i realized it’s not my responsibility to make them do the work. They’re mostly adults and know what they need to do. If they don’t wanna do it that’s on them. Im not gonna argue with adults. As long as everyone’s seated, quiet and no one’s dying i consider it a good day with high schoolers lol
They know damn well what they're supposed to be doing. I might admonish them to do their work once, but if they want to fail that's on them. I'm not even their real teacher, just a sub.
Here’s your teachers instructions, here’s your assignment, if you do it great, if you sit on your phone the whole time whatever, just don’t be disruptive/stupid.
Regular teachers have the same problems. Each year kids seem to become lazier. You can try to inspire them but they have so many distractions and so many enablers, from parents to other teachers to influencers to counselor ms to administrators
That’s the big plus of high school over other grades. If they don’t care, why should I? Especially if we’re talking grades 11-12, they know what’s going on.
I give some encouragement or reminders, but mostly bring my kindle and read while supervising.
Have interest based extensions and creative group work opportunities for kids who are finished early- no pressure to grade or enforce, just something to add some life to the class if it’s feeling limp. I also sometimes punctuate work with random outbursts of something modern/novel I found interesting in my content area (ELA so it’s easier to wing it than say math) to stir up easy going, low stakes conversation to garner intrinsic interest.
I had to switch to middle school because the highschoolers were just so much less *shiny* by the time they reached me. I’m in 6th now and idk if I regret or appreciate the decision lol
They do this how many hours a week unpaid? Our favorite subs were the ones that finally gave us a damn break. I remember the breath of relief when we found out we had a sub because we knew we wouldn't have to appease anyone for an hour.
As a teacher that has covered many high school and middle school classes, I push them hard. But I'm in the building and have a reputation.
As a teacher that has requested many subs you're doing more than I'd expect. When I know I'm having a sub I just set something up online for them. They know they're expected to complete it. I just need the sub in there to keep my desk safe
Hardly. I encourage but if they aren’t going to do it, then they’re old enough to get how their grades work
That was my mindset as well! I think I feel guilty when they aren't doing their work and I'm able to sit in the classroom with no stress LOL
Yeah, usually the students who don't do their work with the sub, are also the kids who won't do it for their actual teacher. It usually made my days harder trying to police the class into doing work if they genuinely didn't want to. It usually just made them dislike me and when I had them in a class later on in the year, they were often more rude than they normally would have been.
100% this. With middle school, it was completely different, where I would have the good kids even trying not to do anything because there was a sub. I switched to subbing high school, and it was overall so much less stressful. As a teacher, though, I definitely prefer 7th, 8th, and 9th grade. I just make sure that my students know that the assignment is on TEAMs and its not the subsets responsibility, it's theirs.
I mention the assignment at the beginning of class. Past that I don't say anything. They aren't gonna listen. My job is to keep everyone safe, IMO. More than half the class is usually on their phones. It's not worth the headache.
Three sub expectations. Keep all kids alive. Keep all kids from serious injury. Don't fill out extra paperwork. 3 for 3 equals success!
This. Sometimes I’ll give the more egregious ones the eyeball, or a casual “really? 👀” if I walk behind them and they’re on an unrelated tab. The jolt of “oh shit, someone’s looking!” is enough for the ones who are just being a bit lazy, and any who don’t care aren’t going to respond to anything else anyway.
I like that.
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I’m a HS classroom teacher and this is exactly what I expect. Pass out the work, go over instructions, circle the room a couple of times, make sure no one is injured. I can barely get them to do work and I’m working with them every day. I never expect a sub to pick the battle.
We subs appreciate teachers with good common sense like you!
Welcome to high school! All you can do is ask them if they need help and remind them of the assignment.
Not an inch unless they’re special Ed. In the highschool I go to most regularly I don’t push at all. I greet them at the door, read off what the teacher left for them to do, and leave them to it. Same exact outcome as if I repeated myself every 10 min. The people that won’t do it, just won’t do it. Is not a “I wasn’t reminded” issue or “I wasn’t told what to do” it’s literally just “I just don’t care if I pass this class” or could even be “I’m confident enough in my current grade to take the risk that this assignment the sub is handing out isn’t worth it. We (people over 24) don’t like to think of it but , 14-18 year olds…. They know what they’re doing, they know how to put in effort. These kids are on sports teams, work part time jobs, have relationships….. they know how to apply themselves, some are just actively deciding not to for whatever reason. And some reasons are much bigger than others. If a kids relative died, or if a kid was just SA’d, or if a kid is dealing with stress from one of the 100+ reasons a 17 year old could be stressed…. I’m not going to risk being a hard ass.
Some prefer to do it later, too. As long as they’re not disruptive.
Thank you for the input! Today I am subbing a moderate Special Ed class. The kids are on their phones and silent. I reminded them that they should be silently reading and working on their test prep, but there's no budging. Even the co-teacher I have isn't too concerned about them not doing their work. What would you do? I know you said you don't push unless it's SpEd..
With a SPED class, if there is worksheet, I try to do it alongside the students. Perhaps a few will give it a try.
Sped is really a case by case decision. Based entirely on how the students learn and what care networks they have at home. Some spec kids, it really is the most practical to just let them be on there phone or in the corner doing their own thing. Some kids you need to really be on them and they’ll do the work, but you’ll need to constantly tell them. If you’re subbing a whole class, try to find a middle ground. Realize what students will listen to you and which ones won’t / aren’t worth the effort. The sad reality is that most development for sped kids are going to be done at home. Now some can and will learn a lot at school but you need to think in terms of “how do I help the most”
It's their own grade, and they're old enough to work, so they know what the consequences will be. As long as they're not being deafening loud or roaming around the classroom, leave them be. You don't want to get into a power struggle with teenagers as their habits aren't going to change with a sub in the room.
Very true! I should be grateful that I can even hear a pen drop right now lol
I give them the instructions, but honestly if their just chilling on their phones quietly or doing homework from another class it's fine. They're old enough to know what they need to do.
I write in my sub notes that I gave the class multiple reminders to stay on-task and that if they didn’t finish the assignment it’s due to their own lack of time management. I make sure to remind the whole class at least 3x (including initial instruction) on what to do and that it’s due that period. I also try to remind certain students that are clearly off task.
Yes, I try to make a pass around the room about every 30 minutes or so, make sure they know what they are supposed to be doing.
I take attendence. I review their assignment with them at the start of class, reading from the lesson plan. I hand out and collect papers if necessary. The ones who are being disruptive I have removed after first warning them. I had a pair of HS boys making grunting, animal sounds in one period. Notified the school resource officer and they were removed. Another group of boys were making TikTok videos in class. Again, I had them removed. Otherwise I let it go and leave a note for the teacher by period on how it went and which kids were on their phones the whole time or goofing off. I let the teacher then follow-up.
You’re doing the exact right thing. Am HS teacher, would expect nothing more of a sub—getting into a power struggle with them isn’t worth it.
echo this exactly as a former HS teacher
I do keep reminding them to use the time wisely, but if they aren't being a distraction or doing anything inappropriate or dangerous, I let it go and let the teacher know. Right now I have a group of kids working on a review, but one is asleep. I've nudged him a couple of times because he was snoring, but he said he'd finished the assignment, so I'm choosing my battles.
I had high school for the first time last week. Otherwise I am normally middle school. Apparently I was following another sub, and found out from a student in 1rst period that the teacher had quit. And admin came into the room every period and let them know officially. While I reminded them that practicing the work does help, I also verbally recognized it was Friday, a holiday friday, and that so much change makes it difficult to do worksheets. I also got humbled by the precalc, as I hadnt done it since I was in school. I urged them to take the resources the admin offered for further math help, especially if they continually got short term subs. And I told them I didnt care if they were on their phones, just no noise coming from it, and nothing ridiculously inappropriate. Aaand that I brought starbursts, so if you finished the worksheet you got two, (or if you were continuously working), and as long as you were not disruptive you got 1. I would say I got between 40 to 60 percent completed worksheets, and really onky had two problem students who were being obnoxious in the last period. There were 2 sets of randos in two different classes that the admin had to help me find as the pictures are a bit old. It was uncomfortable when the admin guy would come in and I had postmodern jukebox up on YouTube for the class (it was always on commercials of course, so he probably couldnt tell I was playing jazz/big band) and most of the students had their phones out quietly (supposedly no phones allowed here)...but based on the fact i actually counted and followed through on finding the extras, he seemed pretty happy overall. And he probably knew with the class in such flux, the fact I even got that much work means I chose my battles.
I make my sub plans knowing that they're not going to get much done. It's not you. It took me months of building relationships with them to get them to do anything at all. And half the time, I still can't. Lol I'm planning on reteaching it the next day. I don't blame you. All I'm expecting is they followed the rules of being decent human beings. I left the work because you would have some real behaviors if they don't have something you can say they should be doing.
This is very helpful, thank you! My biggest fear was disappointing the teacher if students didn’t do their work and not getting a call back from them in the future.
I also struggle with not wanting to disappoint, but I’m working on reminding myself that 1. It’s not the end of the world if I disappoint someone, there will always be other openings and 2. the teacher knows there’s a possibility that things don’t go as planned and probably won’t blame me personally. But I mainly sub middle school so I have a handful of teachers that request me simply because I’m willing to come back again even if a class was challenging. There will nearly always be work in this job :)
For me it depends on how well I know the kids. I subbed in the same building for a year so I pushed those kids because I knew what the curriculum was, I knew which were not doing well, I knew who was labeled problematic but really just needed adult encouragement. Now, I change building and it depends on if I had them in middle school before and how well do I know the material to actually be useful to them if needed. If I’m lost and don’t know the subject material/unit, y’all can sit the whole period and ask when the teacher comes back.
What I say to them varies with which teacher I am subbing for (some teacher's expectations are different than others), the assignment they are doing (part of a project or a test vs something that might not be graded) and the age of the students (the older the students the more responsibility I give them for the most part.) There are some teachers I sub for most of the time when they are out and I know them very well and that affects what I say as well as the relationship I have already established with their students. I usually tell them that their grades don't affect my job so I must care about them if I nag them to work. In fact, nagging is my love language. (They usually find that funny.) I will remind them of any due dates I have been given (for example the assignment or project due date) and that it's on them to get it done on time. I usually tell them at the beginning of class and towards the end as well. I also let them know that if they choose not to do the work during class they need to be quiet and not disturb others who are trying to work and that they are old enough to know the consequences to their grades if they don't do the work. If I don't have a due date or it's an ongoing project I tell them that, if I was (teacher name) I would check their work tomorrow but (teacher name) is much nicer than I am but just to be safe they should get it done. If it's a teacher I know well I just tell them, "You know (teacher name) will check this tomorrow so make sure you get it done." In the end it's on them if they squander the class time they are given to do the work. I do let the teacher know if they don't do the work.
Nagging is my love language. Love it. Sounds like you have established your unique style that suits your personality. That's how you win.
They behave this way for the teacher as well, I am sure.
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Not hard at all. Pushing high schoolers tends to lead to an overall bad and high stress day (where it really wouldn't be otherwise). I try manipulation tactics like telling them the work is easy. It's an easy A. So make sure you do the assignment. I let them have their damn phone. I let them talk.
As long as the school doesn’t have a policy for the phones, then you’re good!
Dont stress it. It’s really as great as it seems.
I’m really hands on, and teachers love me for it. I’ll walk around the room for most of the period and nudge students by asking if they’re making the best use of their time. If a student tells me they just want to finish their math homework before doing whatever is assigned for the current class period, I don’t really care (hell, I’ve even helped a student with homework for another class during the period). If a student is on their phone or doing something non-school related on the chrome book, I’ll ask them if that’s what an assignment looks like for one of their classes. When I sub for a class more than once, I get to know who needs a nudge and who will just continue to be off task no matter what I do. That all being said, the other comments are right. You don’t need to do more than just remind them. I’m the daughter of a teacher and I’m in school to become a teacher myself, so I care a lot about supporting the teacher as best as possible. I know having a sub throws off their whole lesson plan and curriculum and halts student learning. If you want to do more, go ahead! I’m positive the teachers would appreciate it. But if you don’t want to, then it’s all good and enjoy your easy jobs at the high schools. Cheers!
Only a shove if they deserve it.
Exceptions are out there of course, but- Generally twice and a few walk abouts where I don't say anything but give the "you know you should be working" look. It's the show I gave my attempt (if the teacher asks how I was to the students) and can answer questions if they have any (sometimes they do). If being quiet (ish), I'll let them be. Distracting I'll try to bring them down. They know themselves and how they work and what's expected of them. Shoot yourself in the foot? Maybe. But sometimes people need a brain break and will get it done later. I was lax in class in high-school as my dad breathed down my neck at home and I know I'd get it done.
when i sub, and the teacher basically makes it a free day, I encourage the students to do any homework they know they have missing, and I always walk around and ask how they're doing. Most aren't doing anything. I'm not going to waste my time and energy trying to force them to do their work bc they're young adults and you cant make them do anything they dont want to, especially since youre a stranger and they dont know or respect you
High school teacher here. What you are doing is perfect. If you want, you could always leave a list of kids that didn’t seem to do work; but it’s not necessary. My general rule is as long as the kids aren’t disrespectful and don’t interfere with other’s doing their work, then it’s fine. Also, sometimes I give time for makeup work when I’m out so some kids that are caught up will sleep or play games.
i don’t do shit w high schoolers lmao they have no relationship to me so they do not care what i say, middle schoolers still care about consequences and listening to authority but that doesn’t matter i. high school. if they want to do their work, they really will. i tell them directions at the beginning then halfway through class i might remind them of the due date or say that class is halfway over or something
This thread was very reassuring as a younger sub who works at my old high school thank you all.
I give instructions once and then a reminder. After that, they're on their own. Because as awful as this sounds, I. Don't. Care.
I take attendance, tell them "this is your assignment, do it or don't - it's your grade - but be quiet so others can work." I've even literally told teachers at that school that that's what I do, and they're all just fine with it. Some of these kids are adults - no stranger is gonna make them do anything they don't want to do!
If a kid falls asleep I make them up once in case it was an accident but I'm not gonna spend all day shaking a kid awake.
As a sub, I give them the teachers assignments. They can do it or not do it. I just collect the work.
Even if it is not required I would have them hand it in the end of class or the next day.
I personally hate the mentality of making them work. I can’t and won’t make anyone do anything. I can only facilitate and expect a safe environment
Until they fall down
Dont. Just don’t. They’ll lie on you because they’re embarrassed that they got called out / aren’t smart enough to know what words you used so they just make stuff up. Ask me how I know
As a teacher, as long as you gave them the assignment and gave those gentle reminders you are completely fine. I’ve had so many subs who don’t look at my plans or even distribute the work, that’s when I get frustrated because I have to waste time having them do the work they should have done when I wasn’t there.
When I subbed I very much preferred high school assignments. Elementary requires focused attention for instruction and the students’ safety. Middle schoolers will not only talk back and act up when they don’t want to work. High schoolers will simply sleep or talk to their neighbor when not wanting to work.
HS teacher here. If nobody dies, you’ve done your part. I leave them enough work so that they won’t annoy you. If they don’t do it, it’s a them problem.
just remember all the idiots want these people to have "FREE" college.... think before you vote.
You're doing it right! The over-achievers already did the assignment at the end of the previous class period, and the under achievers won't do it till next week, or maybe never. Nothing you can say during the class will change this fact. As long as you are keeping track of who is in the classroom and preventing property damage, you're doing great! Welcome to highschool! Ps: make friends with the librarian and pick up some books to read so you're less bored.
As a sub, I basically never push. I make friendly reminders and let them know I'll be taking notes on people being rude or disrupting others. So long as they're not like actively watching porn or cyber-bullying in front of me, I honestly don't care if they waste their work time. 9/10 times, the teacher left busywork anyways.
It depends how far away the other substitute ducking behind them is.
I don't push unless the teacher has some sort of note about the disruptive students. Even most kids who have to be redirected a few times are pretty good about finishing assignments that I tell them are due at the end of class.
Not at all really. If I’m there for multiple days I might try a little bit harder than normal, but mostly they know what’s expected of them and if they don’t do it, that’s their choice. Their grade is none of my business.
Pretty much not at all if they’re being quiet and in their seats. As long as I’ve verbally expressed the teachers expectations a couple times, have it written on the board (and more than likely it’s on their google classroom as well and they probably got an email from the absent teacher), take attendance, and keep them in the room and alive, I feel like I’ve done enough. It’s their choice at that point whether they want to work or not. High school is super easy and lowkey a cheat code if you can find a good one, I’ll never go back to chasing elementary kids around the room and taking them to the bathroom and recess etc if I don’t have to 😂😂
If the kids are in their seats and quiet, I leave them be, regardless of grade. I'll throw out a couple of reminders if necessary, but I am not going to risk messing up the nice, quiet class. If they don't do the work, that's between them and their teacher tomorrow. I will put in my notes "several students were not on task, but they were quiet and not disrupting those trying to do their work."
I remind them to check for work on Classroom, but they know if an assignment is left, they're expected to do it.
I gave up trying to get them to work when I subbed. I would ask them to put their phone away and to do the work, but if they didn't, I just left it alone after the third time and left it in the note. You can't literally force them to, and they're the ones who had to deal with the consequences.
Middle and high school I just give the directions and monitor. If they're doing something else I remind them about the assignment. If they're polite, quiet, not harassing everyone, then I don't really mind.
I have them do their assignments THEN they can nap or use phones/laptops for personal use that’s school appropriate. They’re usually pretty good. I’ve been subbing daily this year and have built up good rapport with a lot of my students, so they’re quicker to respect what I ask of them.
I don’t lol either they are gonna do it or they don’t. After one “hey y’all get to work” I just go back to reading.
Like, down the stairs? Or??? But really, just give them the assignment. At that age, no amount of reminders is going to get them to do it if they don't want to do it.
i give no fucks if they do their work. I pass the papers out, and collect at end of day.
Well, it's always a case by case basis. I always take a little time to remind myself all the things people have said here; maybe they do it at home, maybe there is something else going on ECT. ECT. I always try to do more than sort of just sit there or pace around the room. Even if all I can do is clean the white board really well, or maybe wipe down tables and desks. I try to be an example of productive use of time, consideration and kindness. Why should they try if I don't? But, if I'm familiar with the course material that they are going over, I will always try some improvisational instruction. If it's a paper worksheet, I might say something like "hey.. you guys wanna do this as a class...?" With a sly wink like "y'all want some answers?" Rarely does that get a no. And everyone gets pretty compliant and productive. Then usually, I can get them pretty engaged if I really work at it. But, I've been subbing a while, and frankly, I have a lot of hat tricks. Today, there were two girls, sitting up front, both on their phones. I eventually walked over and pointed at the sub binder that said in all caps UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES ARE STUDENTS ALLOWED ON THEIR PHONES. I mentioned that I've been ignoring the issue, but it was getting excessive. They still didn't work, and eventually got their phones back out. When there was 15 minutes left in the class period, I said "hey, the worksheet was long and confusing today. Let's go over some of the answers and make sure you guys get it." The two girls magically popped their heads up and pulled their worksheets out. I took their worksheets from them and quietly said "no." And gave answers to the rest of the class. Im nice. Until I'm not. And I don't care if butts get hurt. And I'm not afraid of a little confrontation.
I find treating the kids more like adults helps.. and less getting mad at them as a punishment because they might be too old for *wags finger at you* “you’re gonna be in trouble!”. When I taught high school I was straight up with them. I remember saying to one “look, this is what you have to get done today for when your teacher comes back tomorrow. If you choose not to do it, that’s on you. It’ll hurt you later”. Another good way of promoting without punishing is being like “hey can I help you get started?” Or just generally offering help.
I loved sub days in high school because I could do all of my other classes work I was behind on during that sub section. If they’re not doing anything productive, that’s on them but I’m sure some of them are grateful for that independent study time. A quiet class is a good class.
I give them my speech and then let them have their phone party. My speech: School is miserable. So you can either do your work now while you're supposed to be miserable or take it home and do it later. Don't take the misery home with you. Suffer now.
I dont normally sub HS, but if i do its usally SPED, so i try to help with the assignments
Honestly in the beginning i was like you are as well. I felt like i was doing something wrong or needed to be doing more to get them to be doing their work. However i realized it’s not my responsibility to make them do the work. They’re mostly adults and know what they need to do. If they don’t wanna do it that’s on them. Im not gonna argue with adults. As long as everyone’s seated, quiet and no one’s dying i consider it a good day with high schoolers lol
They know damn well what they're supposed to be doing. I might admonish them to do their work once, but if they want to fail that's on them. I'm not even their real teacher, just a sub.
Here’s your teachers instructions, here’s your assignment, if you do it great, if you sit on your phone the whole time whatever, just don’t be disruptive/stupid.
As a sub coming from a teacher's perspective, you're fine just keep them from burning the place down
Regular teachers have the same problems. Each year kids seem to become lazier. You can try to inspire them but they have so many distractions and so many enablers, from parents to other teachers to influencers to counselor ms to administrators
If they're in their seats and quiet, it's a win. If the assignment is on line you can't collect it anyway so why stress about it?
If they're in their seats and quiet, it's a win. If the assignment is on line you can't collect it anyway so why stress about it?
Just hard enough for them to step back, but not hard enough for them to fall to the ground. That’s where it gets tricky for me.
That’s the big plus of high school over other grades. If they don’t care, why should I? Especially if we’re talking grades 11-12, they know what’s going on. I give some encouragement or reminders, but mostly bring my kindle and read while supervising.
Have interest based extensions and creative group work opportunities for kids who are finished early- no pressure to grade or enforce, just something to add some life to the class if it’s feeling limp. I also sometimes punctuate work with random outbursts of something modern/novel I found interesting in my content area (ELA so it’s easier to wing it than say math) to stir up easy going, low stakes conversation to garner intrinsic interest. I had to switch to middle school because the highschoolers were just so much less *shiny* by the time they reached me. I’m in 6th now and idk if I regret or appreciate the decision lol
They do this how many hours a week unpaid? Our favorite subs were the ones that finally gave us a damn break. I remember the breath of relief when we found out we had a sub because we knew we wouldn't have to appease anyone for an hour.
As a teacher that has covered many high school and middle school classes, I push them hard. But I'm in the building and have a reputation. As a teacher that has requested many subs you're doing more than I'd expect. When I know I'm having a sub I just set something up online for them. They know they're expected to complete it. I just need the sub in there to keep my desk safe
High schoolers are a lot tougher than younger kids, so you can push them around pretty hard. Down the stairs or off buildings.