Substitute Teachers Lounge
There are LOTS of podcasts for teachers, but Substitute Teachers Lounge is the first podcast ever that also highlights substitute teachers. This podcast is aimed at giving ALL types of teachers the tools you need to teach in K-12 (elementary school, middle school, and high school), including administrative aspects as well as helping students receive everything they need to learn and feel special. We interview teachers, subs and students to make sure we have the information we need in order to "get it right". And, since it is a "lounge", you will have plenty of opportunities to share your stories too!
Episodes
Breaking my own rule of "never below third grade," I recently stepped into a first-grade classroom as a substitute teacher and discovered a whole new world of teaching challenges and rewards. The experience was so transformative that I couldn't wait to share what makes seven-year-olds uniquely different from other elementary grades.
First graders operate in a heightened emotional state that man...
Substitute teaching comes with unexpected social dynamics that we rarely discuss openly. What happens when students loudly proclaim you're their "favorite substitute" while another sub stands nearby? Should you feel proud or guilty when teachers request you instead of other substitutes? Today's episode dives into these delicate situations and explores the sometimes awkward relationships between sub...
What happens when students mistreat each other, and how should substitute teachers respond? This deeply reflective episode explores the delicate art of addressing student conflicts while maintaining dignity for everyone involved.
Drawing unexpected connections between spring break viewing experiences—from 1970s home movies to the Minecraft film—Greg Collins shares powerful insights about witnessing and addres...
Teachers and substitute teachers never truly turn off their "teacher brain," even during spring break. Like comedians and songwriters, educators are constantly collecting experiences, images, and stories that can engage students and improve classroom learning.
• Spring break provides opportunities to gather visual aids that capture student attention better than lectures alone
• Personal photos f...
Finding the sweet spot between following a regular teacher's lesson plans and bringing your authentic self to the classroom—that's the balance every substitute teacher must strike. Drawing from seven years of substitute teaching experience across elementary, middle, and high school classrooms, I explore when to stick to the script and when to trust your teaching instincts.
Physical boundaries in education have always required careful navigation, but today we're tackling the subject that many teachers hesitate to discuss openly – classroom hugs. Drawing from seven years of substitute teaching experience across elementary, middle, and high school settings, I'm sharing personal observations, experiences, and guidelines that have shaped my approach to this sensitive topic.
Have you ever caught yourself rambling to a classroom of increasingly glazed-over eyes? You're not alone.
Inspired by Henry Winkler's candid admission about losing acting roles due to excessive talking, this episode dives deep into the complex world of classroom communication. As someone who self-identifies as verbose, I share personal strategies for managing my "gift of gab"—including th...
After six years as a substitute teacher primarily in middle and high schools, I've discovered that elementary school—specifically third grade—has become my preferred teaching environment.
• Elementary students are more engaged without smartphones and more enthusiastic about learning
• The COVID break significantly impacted middle schoolers, making them noticeably less mature
• Teaching the same c...
Our latest discussion dives into the joys and challenges of medium-term substitute teaching, emphasizing the deep connections with students that can emerge in just a few short days. We explore how embracing this teaching style can lead to rewarding and memorable experiences for both teachers and students.
• Exploring the transition from short-term to medium-term teaching
• Sharing memorable experiences f...
Substitute teaching requires a unique set of skills that differs from traditional teaching. By exploring seven essential qualities, we aim to equip substitute teachers with strategies to adapt quickly, manage classrooms effectively, and engage students instantly.
• Emphasizing adaptability for varying classroom environments
• Discussing classroom management without inherent authority
• The importan...
This episode sheds light on my frustrations as an experienced substitute teacher, where low tolerance for certain administrative practices, student distractions, and teacher interactions have prompted reflection and growth. Understanding the evolving dynamics in the classroom and personal strategies for maintaining positivity amidst challenges are key themes.
• Addressing low tolerance for vague administrative pr...
This episode explores effective strategies for maintaining quiet in classrooms without resorting to yelling. By sharing anecdotes and practical tools, we aim to help teachers create a positive and engaging learning environment while managing noise levels.
• Importance of follow-through in discipline
• Symbolic gestures promote quietness in elementary classrooms
• Auditory cues like clapping help stu...
This episode delves into the art of asking questions in the classroom, emphasizing the balance between engaging students and avoiding embarrassment. We discuss various interactive techniques and approaches to make questioning enjoyable and effective for both teachers and students.
• Importance of asking questions in promoting interaction
• Strategies for creating a fun questioning environment
• Using ga...
The episode focuses on the dynamics of becoming a favorite substitute teacher through friendly interactions and storytelling. It discusses strategies for connecting with students, addressing their concerns, and managing the balance between being friendly and maintaining professional boundaries.
• Importance of friendliness in establishing rapport
• Sharing personal stories to connect with students
This episode explores my personal journey with intermittent fasting, highlighting the successes and challenges I faced while losing weight. It emphasizes the crucial role of willpower and stubbornness in achieving health goals and offers reflections applicable to both weight management and teaching.
• A personal account of starting intermittent fasting in January 2020
• Experience with different methods...
Ever wondered what goes through the minds of both students and substitute teachers when anxiety strikes? Join me as I share candid stories and reflections that may sound all too familiar. From the unpredictable dynamics of the classroom to the unexpected challenges that arise, we explore the lighter side of these shared anxious moments with a nod to a quirky Disney podcast featuring the retired Epcot attraction, Crani...
Have you ever wondered if the essence of substitute teaching has truly changed over the years? As I step back into the classroom, I reflect on my own school days and how my role has evolved. Join me for a nostalgic journey that contrasts the traditional strict approach with a more positive and friendly style. In a recent elementary classroom incident, I found that kindness and understanding can have a profound impact,...
Join meas I recount my whirlwind adventure across third, fourth, and fifth-grade classrooms, topped with the unexpected joy of teaching my granddaughter’s class. Ever wondered which grade might just steal a teacher's heart, or what on earth happens when a scheduling mishap turns into a delightful twist? You're about to find out how these stories unfold and what they reveal about the unpredictable yet rewardi...
Can the words we use in the classroom echo louder than our intentions? Join me as I unravel the complex and sometimes uncomfortable topic of harsh words in teaching environments.
What happens when a seemingly ordinary day in the classroom turns into a lesson in responsibility and maturity for everyone involved? As I recount an unexpected incident from my experience as a substitute teacher, you'll uncover the critical moments that tested both my role and the students' readiness for high school. One poor decision led to a student getting injured, and with the sudden turn of events, I w...
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