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Welcome to Substitute Teaching!
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Welcome to Substitute Teaching!
An Illustrated Guide to Stepping in and Making a Difference



March 2026 | 200 pages | Corwin

Your Hands-On Guide to Thriving as a Substitute

Every day, substitute teachers walk into unfamiliar classrooms, often with little preparation time and high expectations to maintain a productive learning environment. This highly illustrated guide recognizes that substitute teachers are critical to student success and deserve practical tools that help them succeed, not just survive. From preparing before the bell rings to leading engaging lessons and managing those final moments of class, this book covers everything substitute teachers need to ensure learning continuity and make a real difference in students' lives.

Welcome to Substitute Teaching! provides a comprehensive toolkit designed specifically for guest educators, featuring:

  • Visual learning aids and infographics that enhance understanding and can be used as classroom strategies
  • Videos showcasing successful substitute teachers sharing practical tips and classroom demonstrations
  • Essential checklists and templates that reduce cognitive load and increase daily success
  • Question-based organization addressing the most common concerns new substitute teachers face

This resource ensures consistent, engaging learning experiences that keep students on track—no matter who’s in the classroom.


 
Acknowledgments
 
About the Authors
 
About the Illustrator
 
Introduction
 
Section 1: Before the Bell Rings
 
Section 2: The First 5 Minutes
 
Section 3: Leading the Learning
 
Section 4: The Last Few Minutes
 
Section 5: Beyond the Bell
 
References
 
Index

As a school principal, I know firsthand how critical a skilled, prepared substitute teacher is to maintaining learning momentum. Welcome to Substitute Teaching! is an outstanding, practical guide that equips guest teachers with the tools, strategies, and confidence to step into any classroom and make a real difference. Its clear organization, actionable tips, and focus on both relationships and routines make it an invaluable resource for anyone committed to supporting students. This book doesn’t just prepare substitutes to ‘fill in, but it empowers them to lead with purpose.

Carl Blythe
Principal
Mary Castle Elementary School, IN

As someone who has subbed in classrooms across different grade levels, I know how unpredictable the day can be.  And whether you're stepping into the classroom for the first time or you're a seasoned substitute teacher, Welcome to Substitute Teaching! is a terrific resource, packed with practical tips, clever strategies, and real-world wisdom that you can actually use the moment you enter the campus! 

It’s thoughtfully organized, easy to navigate, and brimming with “Pro Tips” that are super practical!  From classroom management hacks to handy templates, to links to videos and other invaluable resources, this handbook is a must-have in your substitute toolkit.  

Marceline Sciuto
Executive Director - Operations Support
San Diego Unified School District

Finally a guide that empowers substitute teachers to be a key player in a student's learning journey! This book bridges theory and practice, showing how to become the kind of substitute teacher who moves learning forward, motivates students, and keeps them highly engaged. It is a practical guide filled with tangible ideas and clear step by step instructions, offering strategies you can use in every moment of the day. Each section closes with a helpful recap, making it a resource you can return to again and again. From making a strong first impression to giving students a well timed “substitute teacher shout out”, this guide highlights the importance of continuity in routines and structures. What sets it apart is that it not only shares what to do but explains why it matters, helping substitute teachers grow into professional educators who make a lasting impact. A must read for anyone stepping into the classroom, whether for a day or a career!

Kelly An, Ed.D.
Assistant Superintendent, Human Resource Services
Long Beach Unified School District, CA

Welcome to Substitute Teaching! is a practical guide for districts and substitute teachers. It provides checklists, ready-to-use activities, strategies and supports that make effective instruction easier to implement. Whether in the classroom for a day or longer, this resource will build clarity, collaboration, and confidence from a substitute's arrival on campus to the end of the school day.

John Graf
Learning and Assessment Consultant
CESA6, WI

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Paperback
ISBN: 9798348839420
$39.95