Thoughts on Subbing

On Friday I took a step back into the public school system as a substitute teacher.  I was a nervous and excited all at the same time. Mostly I was peaceful and confident. I'm not really sure how you can feel all those things but I diffidently did.  Nervous because off all the unknown, excited because it was something new and familiar at the same time. Peaceful because I know that this is what I am supposed to be doing right now, and confident because I have done this before, I got this, I know my strengths and weaknesses I know how to teach.

(shameless selfie)

First grade, 28 kids. This what scares me most about school and teaching 28 kids in first grade that is a whole lot of kids.  More then there should be in my option. I tend to forget that is what I send my kids into every day but I know that 28 kids in primary grades is not the best teaching model. 

The day went well.  But hey I'm the sub, I remember thinking lets see what we could get away with when I was in school. So there was a lot of "can I go to the bathroom" and some of  "Mrs. so and so let's us do that"  But I saw through their tricks. The class was not easy. There were a few that were notorious for disturbing the peace with their teacher there. So I didn't feel too bad when they did they same for me.

At the end of the day I was wiped out!!! Exhausted! I could chase my preschool class around for days and wouldn't be as tired. But that is the difference.  My preschool class is mine. I love them. We are a team.  When you go into someone else's classroom you are guest and you do your best.

Being a sub is what I expected. I would give directions, keep the peace, be caring, have a warm smile, make them laugh, help when needed, entertain for a bit  and wait for the bell to ring. All in all I'm chalking it up for a good experience and ready for some more.