Coffee, Classrooms, and Finding Your Way

In previous posts, I mentioned the importance of getting established with the county (or counties) where you will be substitute teaching. I also talked about being available as much as possible during your first year, taking any assignments you can get, and learning the check-in procedures at each school.

It’s also important to learn each school’s rules—what you and the students are allowed to do (cell phones, games, etc.) and what you are not allowed to do. You should also know when you need to stay with students and when you do not, such as during lunch or when elementary classes go to PE, music, or art.

Most schools will provide a folder or packet with helpful information like schedules, rules, maps, and sometimes even a substitute login for the computers. However, there are a few other important things I didn’t initially think about.

Sometimes finding the classroom you’re assigned to can be difficult. Directions are often given as if you’ve been in the building before, and if you haven’t, it’s easy to get lost. If possible, ask whether a student or staff member can walk you to the room. Even having a map can be a huge help.

Knowing where the nearest adult restroom is can also be very important. Occasionally you may have to use a student restroom, but I recommend being cautious and avoiding it when students are present if possible. Teacher or staff restrooms are usually much more comfortable.

If you’re a coffee drinker, I recommend bringing your own from home. However, it’s also helpful to know whether the school has a coffee maker (often in the front office) and what type it is—grounds or pods, carafe or single-cup. Many teachers also keep single-cup coffee makers in their classrooms. I like to find out who the coffee drinkers are nearby in case I need a cup, sugar, or creamer. 

Trust me, there are days when one cup just isn’t enough—no matter how the cup big is. 

Of course, always ask first. Do not assume you can help yourself.

The same goes for snacks. Many teachers keep snacks in their desks, along with things like cough drops or aspirin—and there’s a reason for that. Sometimes a little chocolate therapy can go a long way. It’s best to bring your own snacks, but some teachers are willing to share within reason. Again, never assume you can help yourself.

Substitute teaching can be very rewarding, but like any job, it comes with a learning curve. Many of the small details—like finding your classroom, locating the nearest restroom, or knowing where to get a cup of coffee—can make your day go much more smoothly. The more familiar you become with each school and the people who work there, the easier it gets. Over time, those little things that seemed confusing at first will simply become part of your routine.