Substitute teaching brings me joy and profound satisfaction, even when it is unsatisfying and depressing. I have been subbing for about 3 months and it is great. What an adventure. Imagine getting a call in the morning like you are a secret agent. They ask you if you want a job.
What job? Who knows? It is only after you push the number one on your phone that they begin to tell you of your assignment. Sometimes it will be second graders, sometimes seventh. You never know. Springfield schools are much larger than the other district I teach in, Chatham, so they sometimes have options.
Would I like a half day with special ed, or a whole day with ninth graders at Lanphier? Hmmmm. I'll go with the ones I can fight back if they mutiny. Just kidding. I would never fight back kids, unless I had to. Then, it is best to crush the leader and the others will line up. I learned that from Sun Tzu in The Art of War. A handy book for subs.
My favorite part about subbing has nothing to do with the actual work, I must say. It has nothing to do with the curriculum or the technology or the teacher's lesson plan. The building, the grounds, the administration are all empty shells. It is the children who fascinate me.
These little creatures are bubbling with spirit and personality. They are a true reflection of the power and potential of the human race. Not only do they exude character, but they span a wide array of genetic predispositions. This blog will help me record and remember some of the many great stories I have gained from substitute teaching.
Come visit now and then. See what you think.
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