Substitute Teachers Have Gained Respect

Answer 1

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Substitue teachers have gained credibility and respect in recent years. These professional educators can now legitimately claim and command the respect of students and administration. In most states, substitute teachers minimally have earned 60 credit hours, although many hold advanced degrees. Some are certified or retired teachers. Substitute teachers are no longer considered glorified babysitters. Their primary functions are classroom management and are not employed to keep the students from burning the building down. Today, Associate teachers have the authority and most of the same disciplinary tools assigned to contracted teachers in the district. They can institute classroom management, exercise control, and institute positive discipline. Substitute teachers can issue infractions, assign detention, in-school suspension, conduct tests, instruct, and assign homework.

Associate teachers earn a little less than one-half of the salary of first year tenured teaching staff members. On average, substitute teachers earn approximately $110 per day in salary. However, depending upon the location or area, this amount can vary. Substitute teachers with an advanced degree or state certification earn an appreciably higher daily rate depending upon years of experience. Typically, substitute teachers are paid on the same schedule as regular teachers in the district. Although some voluntary benefits may be offered, usually customary inclusive benefits, such as vacation, sick days, health, and life insurance are ordinarily not available. As most states have opted out of Social Security for teachers, a state operated retirement program is in place. A percentage of the salary, consistent with the customary Social Security deduction is withheld each pay period. Federal taxes are also deducted.

It is important to develop positive and friendly relationships with the school administrative secretary and staff. If these individuals are impressed by the substitute teacher's work performance, they will be instrumental in recommending that substitute for subsequent callback assignments, long term assignments, and specific requests for that associate teacher's services. Additionally, it is critical to demonstrate classroom management ability or skill, an engaging personality, interpersonal skills, knowledge, motivational ability, and a positive interaction with students. Furthermore, it is essential to leave detailed informational notes and feedback for the primary teacher regarding the day's activities, events, any problematic students, or areas of concern, which will help to ensure a request for the substitute's services in the future. A reputation as an excellent substitute teacher will result in a full calendar and will remove the necessity of worrying about finding substitute teaching jobs during the school year.