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*Janet~AR* - Welcome to the Substitute Teachers Meeting
tryharder - The early bird gets the worm
*Janet~AR* - Yes, it sure does! Are you a substitute teacher?
tryharder - ...but the second mouse gets the cheese!
*Janet~AR* - LOL tryharder!
*Janet~AR* - Tryharder and Debbie are you substitute teachers?
Debbie - Yes, I've just finished my 6th year of subbing
*Janet~AR* - WOW! I am a certified teacher who is subbing but wants a teaching position. Are you certified?
tryharder - I'm not subbing anymore - I'm teaching 4th grade.
*Janet~AR* - tryharder that is great! Where do you teach?
*Janet~AR* - Subbing is the best way of getting a teaching position if one is certified.
tryharder - I teach on the west coast of FL. The job market is reasonably good here, but the pay is ... well, the job market is reasonably good!
Debbie - I'm also certified and would LOVE a teaching position. I just finished a long-term assignment in 4th grade and I'm more impatient than ever.
*Janet~AR* - I understand tryharder, but subs do not get paid very well but I do enjoy teaching.
tryharder - I'm on the west coast of Fl.
*Janet~AR* - Debbie, you and I are in the same boat. But we need to be patient. Have you put in any applications?
*Janet~AR* - tryharder I have not been to your state but hear it is beautiful and the teaching positions are plentiful.
Debbie - Yes, my district just had 28 teachers retire. Very few were elementary and all of those are being filled within the system. I guess if the teachers hadn't taken the buyout there would have been layoffs.
*Janet~AR* - Debbie, I know it is difficult waiting but we have to be patient. What issues do you have as a sub?
*Janet~AR* - Tryharder what kind of issues do you have about substitute teachers?
Debbie - Low pay is my number one issue. Not being taken seriously is another.
Kathleen - Janet, thank you for hosting! Hi, Debbie, Nanny, and tryharder :-)
*Janet~AR* - Hi Nanny, welcome to the Substitute Teachers Meeting.
*Janet~AR* - Debbie, I know what you mean! Pay isn't very good and there are some teachers who think subs do not know what they are doing.
Kathleen - Janet, one thing I would like you to talk about before finishing is whether we should have more meetings for substitute teachers..oh, and would you like to have an administrator or two come to a meeting with you.
tryharder - We have a shortage of subs here. That has lead to the hiring of quite a few subs here that don't know what they're doing, unfortunately.
*Janet~AR* - OK.... Kathleen an administrator needs to hear the issues of substitute teachers.
Debbie - I would like to see a meeting with administrators who could give us advice on how to get a job. In my district, I think that subs are ignored when jobs become available because they are afraid of "losing" us.
Nanny/r/2/GA - As a former teacher, I have had some very poor subs!
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Tryharder many school districts offer training courses for subs on their lists. Maybe getting something like that established could help
*Janet~AR* - Debbie, I definately agree with that.
Nanny/r/2/GA - I have an advantage! I have taught before!
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - That is true nanny...however in my school district you only have to have a high school diploma to sub.
Nanny/r/2/GA - The pay in GA is not very good!
Nanny/r/2/GA - Same here Angel..a high school diploma!!
Debbie - I am considered to be an "excellent" sub. This year, in my district, subs are being evaluated. Two building principals evaluated me this year. Both gave me the excellent rating--so where does that get me? Nowhere.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - We try to do some training for our subs on handling the curriculum left...protocols in the classroom, avenues to use in case of student problems, etc.
*Janet~AR* - Kathleen, I would have to agree that there needs to be more meetings about substitute teaching with maybe certain issues at a time.
Nanny/r/2/GA - THey do have a workshop before you can sub!
Debbie - Training is another issue. Subs are given no training; not even a manual or handbook. It was hard in the beginning.
Nanny/r/2/GA - Debie, what if you are evaluated poorly??
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - I agree Janet and Kathleen...I think even letting full time teachers know what is the best things to have on hand for the sub to make the job easier would be a great forum.
Kathleen - Janet, maybe you want to develop a list of the issues substitutes would like to discuss in the future
*Janet~AR* - Debbie, I know it is difficult waiting. I too was concidered to be an excellent sub and I have not had any interviews. But it is still early.
pambre - What does anyone think of the unions subs are forming?
*Janet~AR* - No training here either in Arkansas.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - There are some teachers who expect subs to "wing it"...and thats not fair.
Debbie - Nanny, I don't know. We have a shortage of subs. That was our question-- they can't afford to lose any subs.
*Janet~AR* - Thanks Kathleen, I would love to do that.
Nanny/r/2/GA - There are no unions in GA!
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Janet Training has to be established by district. Like one day a year. inservice stuff.
*Janet~AR* - There is a shortage here as well.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Pambre havent heard of that in Texas....but then we dont have strikes either..
Nanny/r/2/GA - Most good subs are looking for full time work!
pambre - WE have shortage of subs but district refuses to hold training meetings.
Debbie - Pambre, I would be happy just to be able to join the teacher's union. We don't get anual raises. I make the same salary after six years as someone just starting out.
Nanny/r/2/GA - So then you loose them...
Nanny/r/2/GA - I sub because I like to be back in the classroom!
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - pambre do you have any avenues like Site based levels the teachers can go thru to get the sub training.
*Janet~AR* - Kathleen, I thought about making a list of issues but as a host you wanted me to welcome people to the meeting.
Kathleen - Janet, I mean, collect ideas that come up tonight in case you want to meet again
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Thats how we get what we want in our district..pretty good success rate too....
*Janet~AR* - One issue I have is that subs are mostly giving out worksheets. I hate worksheets.
pambre - You can join national teachers union
Debbie - We have some pretty awful subs. My twins just finished 6th grade. They always tell me what they think of the subs that they've had. One just gives seatwork and then she reads a novel most of the day. Another one is a "screamer" All the kids hate her.
Kathleen - Angel, what is site based levels you referred to?
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Okay lets see kathleen....sub training, what teachers should do for their subs, The sub goodie bag--things to pull out when a teacher lets you down.
*Janet~AR* - Anyone that is certified can join the national teachers union.
Kathleen - pambre, you are able to join the national teachers union?
Debbie - What does the national teacher's union do for a sub?
Kathleen - oh, Angel, I understand now, thanks!
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - kathleen in Texas we have campus level commitees for requesting what we need for instruction, then district level committee for the whole district. A sub training program would come under district level.
*Janet~AR* - Debbie you are a teacher whether your teaching or not your are certified.
pambre - All subs can . It's in by laws . Student teachers can also.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - When I subbed I took a goodie bag with me with activities that I could do in case I ran out in the class room. Happened alot!!
Kathleen - Angel when you use the term campus, you mean your school building?
*Janet~AR* - I have a big bag I take with me.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Yes katheleen...
Kathleen - pambre, do substitutes have to pay the same amount as full time teachers to join the union?
Nanny/r/2/GA - That is a good idea!! I still have some stuff here at home!!
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Janet that comes from experience good for you!! many subs dont know about that though...
Debbie - I have all sorts of "goodies". Brain Quest, word searches. I play math games, etc.
*Janet~AR* - Lets go over some of the things a sub should come to school with.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - I am on the campus site based committee..and have served on the district before...
Kathleen - that's a good idea, Janet
*Janet~AR* - Debbie, what is brain quest?
pambre - Subs pay less but it is not cheap and union does not really negotiate for subs.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - janet sounds good....bingo games can be home made...
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Brain quest is good.
Kathleen - ah, do we have an administrator in our midst? :-)
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Flash cards to play teams with...hangman phrases...
Nanny/r/2/GA - I feel bad, but i have not taken anything with me!!
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - kathleen where???
*Janet~AR* - My bag has different levels of books to read, word searches, crossword puzzels, pens, pencils, markers, highlighters, and a behavior chart that is given to the teacher.
Ms.D/TX - math flash cards - Around the World is always a big hit.
Kathleen - n2kids, are you an administrator?
Nanny/r/2/GA - I have things at my school I gave to fokkjs! I have used some of those!
Debbie - There is one teacher in the school that my children just got out of that DOES NOT want subs using his lesson plans. He instruct them to use whatever they have brought with them. I am able to cover any subject area with what I have brought with me.
pambre - Mazes work well in upper grades.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Janet those are great things to use.
n2kids - Is that a trick question, Kathleen?
*Janet~AR* - Different kinds of flash cards; folder games are easily made.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Stickers can be great incentives....
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - n2 either you are or arent? LOL
Kathleen - no, we are hoping for an administrator's perspective
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Admin...is always welcome for input...
pambre - Stickers are usefull even with HS students
n2kids - Yes, Kathleen.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Pambre they just love em dont they?? *grin*
*Janet~AR* - Also have a treasure bag. I also leave a business card with my name, address, phone number, and certifications.
n2kids - Is there a question?
*Janet~AR* - n2kids, it is nice to have an administrator here to listen to the issues of subs.
Kathleen - n2, not yet :-)
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - janet now that is good!! You need to get a handbook or at least share these on the board!!
Debbie - Brain Quest is a set of Trivia Questions. They come for K-7 grade levels. They are sold in bookstores and at Costco.
Ms.D/TX - The business card is a good idea.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Hey shawn..subbing is up tonight
Kathleen - Shawn, this is a meeting about substitute teaching, do you substitute or teach full time?
Kathleen - How often do substitutes find that the classroom teacher hasn't left what the sub needs to do the work?
Shawn - no i just stopped by to see what's up. but can i stay?
n2kids - What do you subs wish principal would do and they don't?
pambre - Riddles work well. I put one on the board to start day and keep adding more.
Kathleen - Shawn, everyone interested in the topic may stay and contribute :-)
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Of course shawn....right now we are talking about a sub. goodie bag or survival kit.
*Janet~AR* - I made my own on the puter. I also use them on the folder that has my resume and coverletter. I attach it to the front so the superintendent can see it right off the bat with my certs on the front.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Pambre those are great...the kids love them too.
Debbie - It doesn't happen too often. When it does, I can usually rely on a student to let me know where they left off.
pambre - I would like to see prin. face at least once in the day.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - One thing not to forget folks in your bag is a Snickers bar for yourself on a break....!! I believe in those.
n2kids - Pambre, you mean you don't?
Ms.D/TX - LOL Angel. Chocolate cures a lot of ills.
pambre - I have subbed in buildings and never meet prin.
Debbie - Sometimes I do a question of the day and give a treat as a reward for those who can figure it out. For example 52=W in a Y
Shawn - survival kit? (LOL!)you'll need it with the class i had last year.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Ms. D it can be a life saver!!
*Janet~AR* - One day while I was subbing I was told some big wig type people would be touring the school but would not be touring the first grade classes due to teachers being in a workshop.
Kathleen - Do substitutes have to report to the school office before work?
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - I think the principals should get behind the idea of having their subs trained.
*Janet~AR* - Welcome Alice to the Substitute Teacher's meeting.
Nanny/r/2/GA - I did! I signed a list!!
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Kathleen yes they do on my campus...at the office.
n2kids - They have to go to the office to get the plans for the day, Kathleen.
Shawn - my kids loved brain quest.
Debbie - I have to report to the secretary and sign in. There I am supposed to get a sub folder.
*Janet~AR* - Kathleen, yes they do and have to check out in the office.
n2kids - Angel, we do train our subs.
Nanny/r/2/GA - I have to sign in!!
alice - good evening, to all and I see pambre is here
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - That is great N2 but many dont have it...
Shawn - everytime i gave them free time,they'd fight over who'd get it first.
Valerie/NYr - I'm a bit late...has anyone been to the subpage website..not sure if it has been mentioned..
Ms.D/TX - All they do is sign in at our office. They may or may not see the principal. But she tours the building frequently.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - N2 how did your district set up your training program?
Nanny/r/2/GA - The teacher s at my school have sub folders! But the teachers I subbed for at everything all set out for me!
*Janet~AR* - But the big wig people visited my classroom. When I asked the office about it she said that they were comfortable with letting them come into my class.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Val havent heard of it.
Shawn - and i do mean the kids i had last year.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - nanny we are responsible for having it in our classrooms....but not all teachers really know what a sub needs to have. They assume too much...
*Janet~AR* - Nanny, that is what they do here, too.
Kathleen - Janet, quite a complement to you!
Shawn - n2kids,i thought you were a principal?
Nanny/r/2/GA - I think I have an advantage!! I taught with them!
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - janet congrats!!
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - N2 about your setup of sub training? How did yall go about it??
Nanny/r/2/GA - These sub folders are in a file cabinet! Mine was never used!!
*Janet~AR* - Yes, I was pleased to hear that. The issue I hear from a lot of subs is they feel like glorified babysitters.
Valerie/NYr - try http://homepage.netspaceonline.com/~kristy/subpage/subpage.htm I think I got that right..another link will take you to the substitute's homepage..
n2kids - Angel, before a person can sub they must go thru the training session. I volunteered to be a part of the workshop last year to tell the subs how thing operate at my school. Lots of information was discussed and then there was a time for questions and answers. I want it extended next year so that it is not a one shot deal.
alice - just wanted to stop by and say , THANKS, You guys on the sub board have been a great help.
Debbie - Some of the dittos in the sub folders are so old that they were copied on a mimeo machine!
*Janet~AR* - Val, here website is a GREAT HELP!!! I have visited it many times.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - N2 sounds great....so it would probably need to be a district policy or just by campus??
Nanny/r/2/GA - Debbie, I am sure they are!
n2kids - I also have a "sub expectations " booklet that outlines the dos and don'ts.
Nanny/r/2/GA - n2kids, I like that!!
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - N2 sounds like a plus there!! must mention that to my principal.
Nanny/r/2/GA - A good idea!
*Janet~AR* - n2kids, subs should be told the dos and don'ts. I was not told!
pambre - I would like workshop without adm. present because often there are things to talk of they would be upset by.
Gumbo/K - nice idea, n2!
n2kids - Our workshop is district policy. We made a video of the training session last year for future subs to watch.
Valerie/NYr - I had to go frame free to see the post..it is a great website..lots of good ideas for all teachers alike..
Debbie - I like it when a teacher lets you know who is a good "helper" and the problem children.
n2kids - The workshop is also held twice a year for newcomers.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - pambre like what??? I would have nothing to talk about on educating children that would upset admin??
Nanny/r/2/GA - Debbie, I always tried to do that myself! When I sub now, I will leave the teacher a note letting her know how the day went!
Valerie/NYr - and you should also know the medical problems...
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - N2 I like your ideas. especially the "sub expectations" got my mind a tickin!!!
*Janet~AR* - Debbie, I don't because as far as I am concerned what may be a problem child may not be for me. etc.(some with good child)
n2kids - Our sub evaluates the lesson that the teacher left in terms of ...if there was sufficent work, if the directions were clear, etc.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Val..so true!! I bet teachers dont think about leaving that info for a sub!
Debbie - I always leave a note. I let the teacher know what was covered and how the class behaved. I also try to correct papers.
*Janet~AR* - Med problems are never told to me and I always ask someone.
Nanny/r/2/GA - n2kids, I never had to do that!!
Tony B/CA - Definately, Valerie. ...and utilizing student class leaders will ease the load significantly - KIDS LOVE TO HELP
pambre - I would like to disscuss with other subs , whether they report on teachers who leave no plans, have no seating charts.
*Janet~AR* - It would be a great idea for the reg. teacher to make a sheet with what they want to know in terms of the subs day.
Tony B/CA - I think that would be helpful, n2kids. Surely it can't hurt...
Debbie - Janet, I'm talking about MAJOR problem children. You know the kind-- they give EVERYONE a hard time.
Valerie/NYr - we had to keep a card in our desks so the subs would be aware of the medical problems..
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Tony always a plus...put down a few names or "reliable kids" who know the routine AND can tell it if there is a problem.
alice - Glad to hear that. I might be back later. Bye, pambre
Tony B/CA - Debbie, that's a blessing. Teachers appreciate the feedback
*Janet~AR* - yes, Debbie I know that child well!
Debbie - If you want to be asked back you can't go around reporting teachers who don't leave plans.
Gumbo/K - I leave detailed instrctions as to day's planning periods, medical problems, etc----kids who are good helpers and other teachers who may help if the need arises.......
Valerie/NYr - pambre..our subs never did that..if there were no plans the sub would see one of the teachers on the grade level...rarely happened though
n2kids - Subs, do the principals introduce you to the class. I do but then I have a small school.
Tony B/CA - Well, Debbie, there are two sides to that discussion. I, personally, would like teachers who don't leave adequate plans to be accountable
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Pambre I dont know if that would be conducive or helpful....kinda like talking about students in the lounge at school? Not a positive thing..
*Janet~AR* - I am going to make a sheet up that I would as a teacher want to know about the subs day. This would help save the subs time. At the bottom could be added comments.
Nanny/r/2/GA - kn2kids, not here!!!
Tony B/CA - Bell schedules are a definate!
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - I think I note to the principal might be helpful...but we have to turn in a copy of ours anyway for that exact reason.
pambre - Debbie would this be a subject best not handled in workshop or handled best in workshop without adm. present.
Valerie/NYr - exactly Debbie..sometimes the kids know where they left off..esp. in the upper grades..and our subs usually had writing activities with them for the kids to do..
Debbie - There is a teacher in one building who's sub plans say that you are not to follow his plan book. You are to use your "Bag of tricks" I was uncomfortable with this and spoke to the principal. he said to follow his instructions.
n2kids - It's always nice to leave a treat for the sub.....Snickers or something.
*Janet~AR* - Of course the sub needs to put down unexpected things that come up in the schools like unscheduled visitors to classrooms to do a skit or something of that nature.
Tony B/CA - We had to have plans in the office for up to a week's worth of lessons. General stuff, thematic...
n2kids - Don't be afraid to speak in my presence. I'm here to learn.
Debbie - Pambre, I don't mind discussing things with administrators present.
Kathleen - Debbie, I don't understand, the principal condoned not following the plans??
pambre - Yes please leave a treat
Nanny/r/2/GA - I have only subbed this year! I have enjoyed it!!
*Janet~AR* - I had a teacher who had her own refridgerator behind her desk and she left me a diet coke. Very nice.
Nanny/r/2/GA - I would like to go back next year!!
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Exactly Tony..and that should be required by any admin.. teacher lessons on file.
Tony B/CA - That "bag of tricks" line is an excuse for poor planning, IMHO
Nanny/r/2/GA - janet, her own what???
Valerie/NYr - we had to hand in a plan book every week ..the principal read it and signed it..the subs always had some sort of a plan..I always left a sub folder with enough ideas to cover any "emergency"..
n2kids - Unexpected visitors..how does that happen?
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Agrees with Tony...
Nanny/r/2/GA - A new one on me!!
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - nanny I have a refridgerator in my room too. LOL
Debbie - The principal told me and other subs to do exactly what the sub plans said. I was there for three days. I review past material, had spelling and geography bees. Played math games to review concepts. Read aloud, etc.
Tony B/CA - What do you enjoy about subbing most, Nanny? do you seek full-time?
Nanny/r/2/GA - I have never heard of that! We could not have them!!
Gumbo/K - Val-----we turn in detailed plans, schedules, etc to the office ----all of ous have to......Can't imagine teachers not having to do that....
*Janet~AR* - I enjoy the children!!!
n2kids - Do your schools have sub appreciation day?
Tony B/CA - Fridge in the room, definately COOL!! ;)
Joe/WV - the problem that I have had is the teacher not leaving enough work to last the whole class
Nanny/r/2/GA - Tony, I retired last July! I sub to be back with the kids!
*Janet~AR* - Not here in Arkansas n2kids.
Kathleen - n2kids, intriguing concept, sub appreciation day, tell us about it
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Gumbo that would be poor admin requirments for sure! LOL Tony...comes in handy...by kids use it too.
Tony B/CA - Right on Nanny! how very fortunate for the kids!
Nanny/r/2/GA - I think a frig would be wonderful! I always taske my cooler with diet colkes!
*Janet~AR* - I am in favor of it for sure!!!
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Joed that is what we talked about early...taking a goodie bag with activities "just in case"
Kathleen - Joe, that seems to happen sometimes, do you carry activities with you to the class in case of that kind of emergency
Debbie - Sub appreciation day? I wish. I don't think we are appreciated very much. However, a few years ago a teacher I sub for whenever he is out stopped by my house with a plant and a bag of apples (it was fall) and a nice note. It made me feel great.
Tony B/CA - Joe, Physical Education is a great way to begin or end a day. There are some great non-competitive, team-building games that can do them some good in the self-esteem area
*Janet~AR* - Teachers would include me in things but some of the subs were not due to not being certified. That is so unfortunate.
pambre - Candy is to be carried at all times also.
n2kids - We show appreciation for everybody......cafeteria staff, custodians, etc. It's sort of like a drop for an hour or so. We make appreciation banners and have food of course.
*Janet~AR* - Candy, is a must! I also give my kids a sticker!! Positive sticker.
Valerie/NYr - Can't always leave plans enough to cover the day...esp when illness strikes..I was out one year for 3 weeks...had 3 subs...sometimes the subs just have to be prepared....
n2kids - Oops....drop in.
Tony B/CA - Certification is important to teachers in California - call it a rite of passage, call it qualifying standards, whatever... Yet, we have a growing # of non-certified teachers entering classrooms (another discussion, perhaps)
Joe/WV - emergency activities work good for elementary but as they get older they see it as busy work.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Val that is true...which is where some training can help. And fellow teachers.
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - I usually have 2 weeks in advanced planned..but not much more then that.
Nanny/r/2/GA - Janet, a good idea! I never took candy!!
Tony B/CA - But we can pre-plan for a day, Valerie/NYr - in all respect...
Valerie/NYr - Joe go to the subpage web site...great ideas
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Joe even big kids like logic puzzles, games, team stuff....
pambre - Joe there are adult mazes that work in upper grades
Debbie - I jsut finished a long term assignment. It lasted 75 days. I spent 110 days total in that building. I went in the day after the kids were finished to help clean and organize the teachers room. I wasn't invited to the staff picnic because I am just a sub.
*Janet~AR* - Joe, I have worked with older kids and the elementary type stuff they loved!!!
Nanny/r/2/GA - I have taken videos for them to watch!!
Tony B/CA - I've got no problem with incentives, token economy, and treats for the kids. Hey, it's all about classroom management!
Nanny/r/2/GA - Debbie, you should have been invited!!
n2kids - If a teacher knows she/he is going to be out....the sub folder cannot be used. It is only used when the teacher is out unexpectedly, otherwise they prepare plans to leave.
*Janet~AR* - Debbie, that is unfortunate. You should have been invited!
ÅngelJJ/Tx/2nd - Tony you know it!! I believe in it and have a candy, sticker, and grab jars..
Tony B/CA - That's disrespect, Debbie. I still believe schools should show appreciation for all support in teaching their children. Sorry to hear that
pambre - Field trips are a problem at times,
Kathleen - Debbie, that is just plain thoughtles behavior on the part of the staff
Nanny/r/2/GA - n2kids, that is what our sub folders were for!!
Joe/WV - where I teach videos are not allowed
Gumbo/K - that was very tacky on their part, Debbie!!!
Kathleen - pambre, field trips would be a special challenge, tell us about it
Nanny/r/2/GA - So far , we are allowed to!!
*Janet~AR* - Tony, I have a chart that I let the students who did not break the reg. teacher's rules or mine put a star by their name and the reg teacher knew who got the stars.
Tony B/CA - ... and videos shouldn't be allowed. Unless directly tied to curriculum (and I think the teacher needs to run that session as well)...
n2kids - Nanny, the sub folder is kept in the office. It is only used when the teacher is out unexpectedly.
Kathleen - JOe, videos are over used in many schools
pambre - Field trips are a problem because you need phone no. class list etc.
*Janet~AR* - The sub folders were on the teacher's desk here with everything ready!
Nanny/r/2/GA - Right, n2kids!
n2kids - Video can't be used in my school unless the teacher has permission. There's a form to be filled out.
Debbie - I went on the field trip on 6/8 (it was my birthday) to Sandy Hook, NJ. It was a great trip. The hard part was that the teacher I was subbing for was the organizer of the trip. It was a Marine Science Exploration Day. We had a great time and I was glad to be able to go.
Kathleen - n2kids, I like that policy about videos, it has become a necessity
*Janet~AR* - I did that, too Debbie while interning. Had a blast!!!
Nanny/r/2/GA - So showing videos is a no no???
pambre - Why no videos
Joe/WV - has anyone had trouble with spec ed kids?
*Janet~AR* - Here the main time to use funtime videos is Friday afternoon.
Nanny/r/2/GA - Sorry, I disagree!!
Kathleen - pambre, videos are often overused, a waste of good classroom time
pambre - I do sp. ed. all the time with less problems than regular ed.
n2kids - Videos can be shown if they are relevant to what is being taught.
Debbie - In our district the videos have to be G rated. The only exception is when the video is curriculum related. We read James and the Giant Peach as Shared Lit. Afterwards we watched the movie and did a compare/contrast activity. Then everyone made a poster of one of the characters. It was great.
Kathleen - pambre, I am talking about overused by classroom teachers, not referencing subs here
*Janet~AR* - Spec. ed kids have been no problem for me.
*Janet~AR* - Debbie, that sounds great!!!
Kathleen - Debbie, that sounds like a good exercise..was that what the teacher had planned?
n2kids - Debbie, you can show an R rated movie?
Debbie - The poster was the teacher's idea, the compare/contrast was mine.
*Janet~AR* - Debbie, that sounds like a wonderful activity!!!
Debbie - n2kids, NO!!! Not even a PG13. I wouldn't even consider it.
Joe/WV - The problem that I have had with spec ed is that when you give them the assignment they say that they do soc st or whatever in that classroom
*Janet~AR* - i have used a lot of Venn Diagrams for things like character comparisons.
Kathleen - JOe, so you are saying that the kids misleading you is a problem
Debbie - A Venn diagram was part of the compare/contrast.
pambre - They do all work in class room in sp. ed.
n2kids - At one time, SC was considering making it mandatory for all subs to be certified teachers. That was a joke. We wouldnt have any subs.
*Janet~AR* - i do not let the students get away with that Joe.
Kathleen - But it must be hard to check veracity when you get conflicting stories from students
Joe/WV - no they are not misleading they sometimes go to spec ed teachers for other classes
*Janet~AR* - There is very few subs here that are certified.
Nanny/r/2/GA - n2kids, you wouldn't eithter in GA!
Nanny/r/2/GA - I am certified until July!!!
Kathleen - My district requires a Bachelor's degree..in anything!
*Janet~AR* - Joe, the reg. teacher is suppose to leave a plan book or a schedule for their sub.
pambre - Joe also HS sp. ed. are embarassed by their lacks therefore will try not to let you help.
n2kids - Are any of the subs used a shadows in the school?
Debbie - If a student tells me something like that, I always leave that info in my note at the end of the day. Document everything!
Gumbo/K - my district requires a high school diploma.........
Kathleen - n2, as shadows??
Joe/WV - this poblem usually happens in elementary and middle school
n2kids - Mine too, Gumbo.
Debbie - NJ requires a minimum of 60 colege credits.
Valerie/NYr - Kathleen I think our subs have to be certified too..
*Janet~AR* - Index card file is a great help. I had a teacher who told me to document behavior problems in her index card file with the students names on the cards that she had in the holder.
pambre - Il requires a BA
Kathleen - Ours don't have to be certified, just a degree in anything
*Janet~AR* - Well, here in Arkansas anyone can be a sub! No schooling at all!
n2kids - We have shadows to go everywhere with students that are behavior problems to keep them on the right track. They also help the student with their work.
Kathleen - Janet, are there no requirements at all?
Nanny/r/2/GA - No shadows here!!
n2kids - They have to be major discipline problems
pambre - Shadows are then one on one aids
*Janet~AR* - None here either.
Gumbo/K - no shadows here, either.......
Kathleen - n2, we have paraprofessionals hired full time to be pupil aides
Joe/WV - West Virginia requires that you be a certified teacher to be a substitute
n2kids - Yes, pambre, kinda.
Nanny/r/2/GA - Joe, how do they get subs then????
*Janet~AR* - Arkansas, a sub can be a dropout.
Debbie - It helps when you have subbed a long time in the same district. I am very well known. We have 6 elementary schools anf I sub in all. Most of the kids know me and respect me. They know that I don't put up with anything and that helps a lot.
Joe/WV - WV has a surplus of teachers at the moment
Nanny/r/2/GA - In GA, you have to have a high school diploma!
Kathleen - Are substitutes in your districts interviewed at all before being placed on the sub list?
n2kids - We have aides that float. We don't have enuf subs to be shadows. The sp. ed. dept. pays for the shadow.
Gumbo/K - Could never get subs in our city schools if required more than high school diploma.......
Debbie - Kat, subs are interviewed, but the interview is a joke. Not much is asked.
*Janet~AR* - All I had to do is be fingerprinted and fill out an app. No interview at all.
Nanny/r/2/GA - Oh, not here! We have 19 oepnigns in my system and 489 applicants!
n2kids - Interviewing, that's an idea.
Kathleen - Gumbo, because of a shortage or because of conditions?
Gumbo/K - we use the same group of subs at our school.......once in a while get one from the larger district pool......
pambre - Not having enough shadows (aids) is problem when sub sends day without one
Debbie - NJ also does a background check before you can be hired.
Kathleen - In my husband's district every sub cnadidate had to go through an interview with him (principal)
Gumbo/K - Kat--------a shortage because of conditions!!!!!! ;-)
*Janet~AR* - i was called in to sub on day one!!!
Debbie - Nanny, a few years ago we had two openings and 1200 applicants!!
n2kids - That's a good idea, Kathleen.
Kathleen - Who calls substitutes, and when do subs get the call?
Joe/WV - Speaking of being hired how much weight do you think administrators put on subbing when they are hiring new teachers
*Janet~AR* - WOW! Debbie! That is enough to depress those of us who are trying to get a teaching position.
Debbie - We have a sub caller. She calls either at night or between 6 and 7 AM
n2kids - I don't know if that would work for us. Sometimes we go thru the entire sub list...to no avail.
Gumbo/K - we call in sick to school and school calls subs........or let office know in advance if we know we won't be in......
Kathleen - Joe, I know from watchingmy husband, he viewed a good sub as worth considering, but not an automatic hire, had to interview many and select the best
*Janet~AR* - Here in AR I was called anywhere from 5-7 am to come in at 7:30 am to sub for someone.
Debbie - I worked 162 days this year.
n2kids - Us too, Gumbo.
Kathleen - n2, do you have to call (arrange for) the subs?
*Janet~AR* - There are sub callers at all the schools. It is usually the Secretary.
*Janet~AR* - I worked full time at a local hospital radiology department and still am and subbed on my paid time off.
Gumbo/K - Joe-------I agree with kat--not an automatic hire, but to your advantage definitely if they know your work and you are the best candidate.....
pambre - We have computer for sub caller next year.
Nanny/r/2/GA - janet, same here! Some times a teacher will call me first to be sure i can come!
n2kids - Two years ago, I used my best sub to bring order back to a class that had gone to the dogs!!! I gave the teacher other duties. There was a remarkable improvement. I gave her a plaque on Awards Day to show my gratitude.
Kathleen - Do you feel that you can't say no, that declining the call to sub will result in your being taken off the top of the list?
Nanny/r/2/GA - Nice n2kids!!!
n2kids - No, Kathleen. My secretary does. Teacher has to call me if she/he is not coming to work.
pambre - Saying no is a bad idea!!!!!!!
Nanny/r/2/GA - No, Kathleen! I have declined!!
Joe/WV - Where I am if you decline three time they are not obligated to call you anymore
*Janet~AR* - That is wonderful n2kids!
Debbie - Our sub caller gets upset if a teacher prearranges for a sub. Kat, I know that if you refuse and put the sub caller in a bind you don't get called for a while. I never refused at all this year.
Gumbo/K - when we know workshop, etc is coming up------it's a race to see who can get the request in for the best subs!!! :-)
Kathleen - I know that after a a few declines, my husband would move a name down or off the list
kpc - I try not to refuse. EVER
n2kids - My teachers usually request who they want, but they can't call the sub themselves.
Kathleen - Gumbo, right, a race for the good substitutes!!
*Janet~AR* - LOL Gumbo. I had a problem with that from 3 schools here.
Nanny/r/2/GA - I know the secretary! I will tell her if I am keeping Conner! She understands!
Kathleen - A very difficult job, substituting!
Nanny/r/2/GA - I usually let her know what days i can not come!!
*Janet~AR* - It was always a race to see who got to me first. LOL
Nanny/r/2/GA - It has worked fine so far!!
kpc - Do most of your principals hire from the subs?
Debbie - If you tell her in advance that you are not available, that is OK
n2kids - We share activity teachers in my district and sometimes another school arranges for a sub for my school. They really don't care who they send. Sometimes it's just a warm body.
Kathleen - Has anyone ever been involved with a district that has an automated sub calling system? I've heard of it.
*Janet~AR* - Kat, subbing is difficult but I enjoyed all the inclassroom experience I got this past year.
Joe/WV - what you someone say is the average time someone substitutes before they get a permanent job?
Nanny/r/2/GA - Debbie, yes! This is the school I worked in last year! I am retired!!
Kathleen - kpc, in my district, subs who have been with us for a long time generally eventually get jobs.
Kathleen - Joe, in my district I would estimate 3-4 years
Gumbo/K - We haven't had any certifed subs, so no----but student teachers, practicum students have been hired after graduation...
Debbie - Our principals seem to ignore subs. As I said before, I think they are afraid of losing subs. We have a real shortage. But after 6 years I am thinking of changing districts and work where subbing can get me a job.
Kathleen - But some sobs never are hired full time..the competition is fierce!
pambre - Subs can get jobs in 1 to 6 year range.
Kathleen - not sobs :-) subs
kpc - I think that it is discouraging to have new people hired before subs.
Gumbo/K - KAt----lucky we have elctricity, much less automated ANYthing!!!!!!! :-)
Kathleen - Do substitutes ever recieve benefits?
*Janet~AR* - Subs are suppose to have first priority here but I don't know.
Nanny/r/2/GA - Kathleen, not here!!!
Joe/WV - I do think that you learn more about teaching subbing that you do during student teaching
Debbie - My district big on hiring the children of staff members.
*Janet~AR* - Kpc, I aggree.
n2kids - Not in my district.
*Janet~AR* - Not here Kathleen!
pambre - I have web server really cheap and classes.
Kathleen - I think it is reasonable for loyal subs to be automatically included in interviews for the openings
Kathleen - oh, Debbie, that must bother the subs! :-(
n2kids - Do any of you subs volunteer in a school before working to get a feel for the school?
kpc - Debbie-so if your Mom was a good teacher, you will be too?
Debbie - No benefits here. In fact before subs got so scarce, we could only work 99 days a year; so we would quailify for benefits.
*Janet~AR* - Kat, it is reasonable. Does anyone have subs with disabilities in their schools?
Joe/WV - has anyone had problems being paid for the days that you worked?
n2kids - Not here, Janet.
Kathleen - Janet, I can't think of any subs or teachers with disabilities in my district
pambre - We recieve teacher retirement and disablity in Il
Debbie - I have spent the last 10 years volunteering. I ran our districts Safety Town program for 5 years. I was PTA Treasurer for a total of 5 years (three different schools), and I chaired various committees.
Nanny/r/2/GA - Joe, not yet! I get my last check next week!
Gumbo/K - no, janet, none here....
n2kids - We do have teachers with disabilities.
*Janet~AR* - Joe, yes I have for the afterschool program I was not paid. The teacher I subbed for was suppose to pay me but never did.
n2kids - I'm impresses Debbie.
Kathleen - pambre, that sounds reasonable, I didn't know some subs had benefits like that
Nanny/r/2/GA - Pambre , retirement???
*Janet~AR* - Well, I don't know if anyone knows this but I am hearing impaired!
Kathleen - Do you think that most subs are actually hoping for full time positoin?
Nanny/r/2/GA - janet, I knew!!!
pambre - Retirement benifit ie very nice.
*Janet~AR* - That is why I asked the disability question.
Joe/WV - That has happened to me 2 or 3 times this year. I'll work 8 days but only get paid for 6.
Gumbo/K - we did have 2 deaf teacher's aides in our deaf program.......
kpc - Kathleen-All the subs I know want full time employment
*Janet~AR* - Kat, here the certified subs are subbing for that reason.
Kathleen - Janet, do you think that disability has ever kept you from being hired to sub?
Kathleen - kpc, most that Iknow do, too
Debbie - I am waiting to see if I get paid for yesterday. It was the last day for teachers. Since I had been on a long term I came in to help close out the classroom for the year. The principal said he never had a long-term sub finish out the year so he didn't know if I should come in or not. Well as dedicated as I am I went in. I signed in, so hopefully they will pay me.
Kathleen - Of, course, there is our Nanny, not looking for full time! :-)
Gumbo/K - from the small pool of subs that come to our school, I'd have to say no, they are happy subbing on a regular basis.......
Valerie/NYr - retirement benefit IS ever so nice,,right Nanny..lol
Kathleen - Debbie, THEY'D BETTER PAY YOU!!
*Janet~AR* - Kat, no because I was upfront and honest about it. That is the key. You have to be honest with them.
pambre - I sub as full time job and I know many subs not interested in regular classroom
Kathleen - sorry to shout, seemed appropriate
kpc - Must sign off. Bye for now.
Nanny/r/2/GA - Kathleen, I was askewd if I wanted to come out of retirement!!!
Debbie - Kat, If they don't I will argue my case to the super.
Nanny/r/2/GA - Right! Valerie!!
Kathleen - pambre, so you are not hoping for fulltime classroom position?
*Janet~AR* - Debbie, If they don't pay you then you need to do something about it. Make sure you get paid.
Nanny/r/2/GA - A part time job! I had to decline!
Valerie/NYr - Nanny are you considering it?
*Janet~AR* - Kat, that required shouting!
Debbie - How many days did everone work this year?
Kathleen - bye, kpc!
Nanny/r/2/GA - No Valerie!
*Janet~AR* - Debbie, I don't know for sure. I had a lot of paid time off days accumulated at the hospital where I am working.
*Janet~AR* - Bye kpc.
Kathleen - wow, Nanny, you are popular!
Valerie/NYr - I was asked to sub in my new area..i declined ever so nicely..
Nanny/r/2/GA - I enjoy subbing, but not a daily job!
Nanny/r/2/GA - Kathleen, I just think they think I am bored! LOL!
*Janet~AR* - I appreciate everyone coming tonight. Would everyone like more sub teacher meetings with specific issues discussed at each one.
Valerie/NYr - I haven't unpacked my school stuff yet...lol
pambre - I subbed about 170 days out of 182
Debbie - Janet, definately yes. Thank you for tonight!
Nanny/r/2/GA - Janet, I learned a lot tonight!!
*Janet~AR* - The schools here use anyone that shows up. I mean subs.
Kathleen - We can set aside another evening/s if youfeel you would like to meet again
Nanny/r/2/GA - This was fun!!!
Nanny/r/2/GA - Sounds good!!
*Janet~AR* - Your welcome Debbie!
Gumbo/K - good idea, janet.........THANKS for doing such a good job tonite........Ya better be at the next meeting------no subs!!!!!! :-)
pambre - Please meet more often.
Nanny/r/2/GA - LOL Gumbo!!!
n2kids - thank you all for letting me listen. I hope I become a better principal because of tonight.
Valerie/NYr - nice to hear the other side of the coin...
*Janet~AR* - I will Gumbo and Thanks!
Kathleen - Well, Janet can suggest a date..and you watch the site for announcements and we'll have more meetings for this important group!
Nanny/r/2/GA - n2kids, We enjoyed hearing from YOU!
Gumbo/K - Thank you, too, miss kathleen!!!!!!!
*Janet~AR* - n2kids, Thanks for helping us tonight. Admin. are always welcome to hear the issues.
Nanny/r/2/GA - yes, kathleen and janet! Good show!!
Kathleen - N2, you must be a good administrator because you had the interest to be here :-)
Gumbo/K - n2---------how many kids in your school district?????
Valerie/NYr - n2 I am very impressed..I've been at other meetings..you seem to care about the kids and the teachers...
*Janet~AR* - Kat, will do! Just let me know and in the meantime I will make a list of issues.
Kathleen - And spread the word to other subs
Nanny/r/2/GA - SEE all of you later!
*Janet~AR* - Thanks everyone for a great evening!!!
Gumbo/K - bye, nanny!!!!!!
Valerie/NYr - and n2 is at other meetings too...you will have a successful year in 1998-1999...
n2kids - Maybe about 2,100, Gumbo.
Kathleen - We need more adminstrators involved the way n2, jack and Dave are
n2kids - thank you all for your kind remarks!
*Janet~AR* - Kat, I will post a worksheet for subs. One for a reg classroom teacher to use for their sub to help save them some time.
Gumbo/K - nice, small district--------must be nice to work in!!!1
Kathleen - (I would get my husband involved, but I'm afraid he'll take over the computer!)
*Janet~AR* - N2kids your deserve the kind remarks.
*Janet~AR* - LOL Kat!
Kathleen - Wow, Janet, that would be great!! please do!! where? on sub board or main board or both??
n2kids - Most of the time. My school only has 200 students so it's very nice.
Valerie/NYr - ya need 2 computers Kat...lol
*Janet~AR* - Both!
Gumbo/K - 200???????? WOW!!!!! any openings????? ;-)
n2kids - Kathleen, what will we chat about next?
Kathleen - as long as he's happy watching sports on tv, I think I'll leave him be :-)
Kathleen - Oh, n2, I started in a school smaller than that, it was great, all schools should be that size
*Janet~AR* - My hubby says I hog the puter all the time. He is haveing puter withdrawals!
*Janet~AR* - having
n2kids - Gumbo, we have two...interested?
Kathleen - n2, next on the schedule, you mean? Tuesday is early childhood/primary disucssiona about math programs, wed is Joe Bonsall (oak ridge boy/author)
Kathleen - ...
Valerie/NYr - that's why hubby and I have our own computers..lol
Gumbo/K - either of those two openings in kdn??????????? ;-)
Kathleen - on Fri. the 26th, "6 Trait Writing"
n2kids - I'll be in Myrtle Beach, SC at a principal's conference next week. I'll check the board when I get back.
Kathleen - Oh, and you'll be the first to know, July 1 "Focus On Teachers.Net"
*Janet~AR* - One of my college instructors says that first time teachers would benefit to work in a small school because they are more free to let teachers try new things easier.
Gumbo/K - kat-------never heard of the 6 trait writing before.......
*Janet~AR* - Me either Kat, can't wait!!!
Kathleen - Gumbo, me either..
Kathleen - Gumbo, we'll learn together :-)
n2kids - Sorry Gumbo. Fifth and sixth
*Janet~AR* - I am excited about talking to Joe bonsall. I met him once!
Gumbo/K - oh, well, n2......I did teach 5th lang arts a zillion years ago........
Kathleen - Janet, you'll have to remind him of that!
*Janet~AR* - Is that true n2kids?
Kathleen - only a zillion, gumbo???;-)
n2kids - I'll be in Myrtle Beach next week. so if you all don't hear from me I'll be there.....did I say that already
Gumbo/K - janet-----how come the Oaks got that long=haired guy back again???????? thought he went off to live in the teepee he built.....
Kathleen - small schools are better in every way for everyone, I believe
n2kids - Is what true, Janet?
*Janet~AR* - Kat, I doubt if he would remember me! I have his picture that I took of him.
Kathleen - n2, just find a computer online, maybe in a computer store ;-)
Kathleen - Janet, you can re-introduce yourself :-)
*Janet~AR* - gumbo, the other one was very rude and they had to let him go. But I like that they got the original one back.
*Janet~AR* - n2kids, about what my instructor said about small schools.
Gumbo/K - ohhhhhh---thanks janet, cuz I hadn't seen them in a while and all of a suddent that other guy is back!! Weird!
Kathleen - WEll, I have to leave :-( But this was excellent..we'll do another! Thank you Janet!! Great job!!
*Janet~AR* - the one they replace killed himself last week I think it was.
n2kids - I'm free to let teachers try what they want whether they're new or not.
Gumbo/K - bye, kat!!!!!!thanks again!!!!
*Janet~AR* - Thanks Kat your very welcome anytime.
Kathleen - Good night, all!! Watch for the transcript in the Archive!
Valerie/NYr - night all
