Priority One! 9 out of 10 Students

Reading at Grade Level

NORWALK-LA MIRADA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

HANDBOOK FOR

SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................. 2

II. DISTRICT MISSION ............................................................................................................ 3

III. THE SCHOOL DISTRICT & THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY................................. 4

IV. SUBSTITUTE TEACHER EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS .............................. 5

V. SUBSTITUTE TEACHER PAYROLL PROCEDURES.............................................. 10

VI. PROCEDURES FOR CALLING SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS................................... 13

VII. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SUBSTITUTE TEACHER.......................................... 22

VIII. EVALUATION OF THE SUBSTITUTE TEACHER................................................... 32

IX. OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES ............................................................................................. 36

I. INTRODUCTION We appreciate your serving as a substitute teacher in the Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District, and we encourage you to avail yourself of the services and information we provide. The key to your success will be to have an understanding of our students and our District policies, regulations, and conditions of employment. Teaching is a demanding job and particularly demanding for you, the substitute teacher, because you are performing your teaching duties on a very short-term assignment. As a professional member of our School District, we want you to feel that you are prepared as much as possible to meet the educational needs of our students. Your work in the classroom is an important contribution to the instructional program in our schools. With these challenges in mind, we have developed this handbook to support some of your immediate information needs. We hope it will serve this purpose. The contents have been arranged to assist you in finding the answers to many problems that may confront you as a substitute in the various schools in the District. As you perform your work in the classrooms, you may find that you have suggestions which might contribute to the improvement of our schools. We encourage you to submit your suggestions to the principals or to the Division of Human Resources. New ideas and new ways of doing things are necessary if education in our schools is to continually improve.

Thank you for deciding to be part of The Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District family of educators.

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II. OUR MISSION STATEMENTS Priority One! 9 Out of 10 Students Reading at Grade Level Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District, in collaboration with parents and community, shall develop in all students the knowledge, understanding, skills, and attitudes to empower them to become life-long learners and productive citizens in an ever-changing world. This will be accomplished in a climate that promotes high expectations, strives to meet individual needs and values diversity.

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III. THE SCHOOL DISTRICT AND THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY

A. THE SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District currently has seventeen elementary schools, seven middle schools, three comprehensive high schools, one continuation high school, one Head Start/State Preschool, one First 5 Program, and an extensive adult education program. In striving to meet the needs of a multiethnic student body, the District provides a wide array of programs including special education, bilingual instruction, tech prep, athletics, advanced placement, SBCP, Title I, GATE and many other services. The District is one of the twenty largest school districts in California.

B. THE SCHOOL COMMUNITY

The Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District serves students and families in the cities of Norwalk and La Mirada and is located on the border of Orange County and about fifteen miles from Los Angeles. Citizens from all socioeconomic levels comprise a rich multicultural and multiethnic community. The total diverse minority population of 80% includes 63% Hispanics, 5% African American, 6% Asians, 2% Filipinos, 1% Pacific Islanders, plus a small percentage of students from American Indian and Alaskan Native cultures. The Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District offers dedicated teachers an opportunity to be part of one of California’s finest school districts. Candidates deciding to work in the NLMUSD will be joining a team of more than 2,600 outstanding employees who are providing quality education services to the 22,000 students of the Norwalk-La Mirada area—one of the fastest growing regions in the state of California.

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IV. SUBSTITUTE TEACHER EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS

A. CREDENTIALS The State requires a person to pass the California Basic Education Skills Test (CBEST) prior to the issuing of any credential, permit, certification, or renewal of an emergency credential. Information regarding the CBEST is available online at www.cbest.nesinc.com. The test is only given at certain times of the year. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you take immediate action to take the CBEST. The State requires a person to be fingerprinted. Fingerprint Live Scan with his/her description will be submitted to the Bureau of Criminal Identification Investigation, State Department of Justice or local law enforcement agency for processing prior to employment (Education Code 45125). The substitute must qualify for a credential authorizing service. Qualifications can be found at www.ctc.ca.gov. It is the responsibility of every certificated employee to posses a valid credential of the appropriate type. A Personnel Clerk in the Human Resources Division, (562) 868-0431, extension 2218 or 2127, will gladly provide assistance or information on applying for renewal, and/or registering your credential. Your credential must be registered in the Office of the Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools. Pay warrants cannot be issued until a credential is properly registered.

B. RETIRED TEACHER DOCUMENTS If you are a retired teacher, a State law provides that you may serve in a substitute capacity or in a position requiring certification qualifications. There is a maximum amount you may serve and earn. You should contact STRS for this amount. In addition, a physical examination prescribed by the State Board of Education must be obtained prior to employment. The form, Los Angeles County Schools Employment Authorization for State Teachers’ Retirement System Retirant, is available in the Human Resources Division. The form is to be returned to Human Resources after the examination. The Personnel Clerk will send copies on to the County and the State.

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Retired teachers who substitute teach are encouraged to work at least one day per month. Retirees who are inactive for one school year will be removed from our substitute pool. If you are a teacher drawing retirement, it is suggested that a monthly record be kept indicating the hours or days you have substituted and the amount of salary received. Any amount of salary you earn over the maximum will reduce your retirement pay, dollar for dollar.

C. EMPLOYMENT FORMS There are certain forms and actions that have to be completed before you can begin working for the Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District. All items are required prior to beginning work.

1) The following is a checklist you may use to be sure you have signed and/or submitted all of the necessary forms needed for employment as a substitute teacher.

Application a. Including letter of interest, resume, and

three letters of recommendation Current address and telephone number

a. The Human Resources Division must be kept informed of your current address and telephone number.

b. Please notify us immediately of any change. c. A change of address form can be obtained

from the Division of Human Resources or the district website.

Identification Badge Form Valid Driver’s License/State Issued Identification

card Social Security card

a. If the Social Security card has been lost, you will be required to request a new copy from the Social Security Office. The Payroll Department will not issue a paycheck without a copy of the Social Security card on file.

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Immigration and Control Act Form I-9 Form (Employment Verification) Ethnic Survey

a. This survey is optional. Oath of Allegiance

a. All employees are required to sign an oath. b. The oath must be signed before an

authorized school official in the Human Resources Division.

Warrant Recipient Designation Form a. The State Government Code Section 53245

states, in part, that “any person now or hereafter employed by a County, City, Municipal Corporation, District, or other Public Agency may file with his appointing power a designation of a person who, not withstanding any other provision of law, shall, on the death of the employee, be entitled to receive all warrants, or checks that would have been payable to the descendant had he/she survived.”

W-4 Form a. All employees must complete, sign and file

Withholding Exemption Certificate, Federal and State, with the Human Resources Division.

Not Covered by Social Security a. SSA 1945 Form regarding section 419C of

Public Laws 108-203. b. Part time/substitute employees are not

covered by Social Security, only Medicare. Retirement Information Form

a. Retirement information is needed by the Payroll Department so that proper retirement deductions may be made, if so indicated.

STRS Election/Decline Form a. If you are presently a member of the

California State Teachers’ Retirement System, you will remain a member with the District and have retirement deductions taken from all earnings, regardless of the number of days of service you render the District monthly.

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b. Any substitute teacher may elect to become a member of the California State Teachers’ Retirement System at any time. The election must be made in a pay period during which service has been performed and is effective the first day of that pay period.

c. If you decline membership into the State Teachers’ Retirement System, you will automatically become a member of the Alternative Retirement Program which is at no cost to you.

d. If you decline membership into the State Teachers’ Retirement System, you will qualify for membership after having served one-hundred (100) days in one school year.

STRS or Alternative Retirement Beneficiary Designation Form

a. For either retirement system at least one (1) beneficiary must be selected.

Mantoux Form a. A Mantoux Intradermal Tuberculin Skin

Test is required prior to employment. b. A list of clinics will be provided which

includes information of facilities. T.B. Test Results

a. A written report from a private physician stating the date a Mantoux Intradermal Tuberculin Skin Test was given and that the results were found to be negative must be submitted.

b. A positive reaction to a Mantoux Skin Test must be followed by a statement from a health care provider that you have a positive action to the Mantoux Skin Test and must be followed by a negative chest x-ray.

Hepatitis B Consent/Waiver Form New Teacher Physical Form

a. Section 44839(a) of the Education Code states that a person employed for the first time in a California School District in a position requiring certification qualifications, will submit a medical certificate stating that the employee is free from any disabling

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disease unfitting the applicant to instruct or associate with children.

b. The Certificate of Medical Examination needs to be completed and signed by a physician and returned to the Human Resources Division prior to employment.

Education Level Survey a. This survey is optional. .

Child Abuse Reporting Requirements a. State law requires that every school district

employee who falls within certain statutory defined categories be familiar with the laws relating to child abuse reporting requirements.

Substitute Availability Form a. This availability form will be used to

program the Substitute Finder System of grade levels, subject areas and days you wish to substitute teach.

Fingerprint Live Scan a. All District employees must be fingerprinted

prior to employment. b. A clearance must be received from the

Department of Justice prior to employee commencing work.

CBEST Test Results a. An original copy of CBEST test results will

be kept in employees’ personnel file. Temporary County Certificate Form 41-4 $55 Money Order/Cashiers Check Payable to CCTC Official Transcripts verifying 90 units and proof of

current enrollment or Bachelor’s degree Original Permit/Credential

V. SUBSTITUTE TEACHER PAYROLL PROCEDURES A. PAYROLL PROCEDURE

On the first day of assignment in the month, you may obtain the Substitute Time Report of Certificated Employees from the school secretary. It is extremely important that this time report form be properly completed because it is the record used by the Payroll Office to compute the number of days that a substitute is to be paid each month. A job number is required for each assignment the substitute works. If a job number is not on the time card, the Payroll Office will send the time card back to the substitute, which will result in a late paycheck. One card should be filled out for each calendar month. The principal (or designee) must initial the card before the substitute leaves the assignment each day. It will be the responsibility of the substitute to carry this card to every assignment. At the end of the calendar month, this card must be turned in to the school secretary or mailed/delivered to the Payroll Office in the District Administration building. The number of days taught during the month will be totaled and a pay warrant will be written from this figure. There are currently four different color time cards. Each color represents a different level. The colors and appropriate level are listed below: Headstart/State Preschool (General) Pink Headstart/State Preschool (Special Ed) White First Five Preschool Orange Elementary School Orange Middle School Neon Green High School Neon Green Essentially all cards are the same, except for color. The same information should be included on each timecard. A generic timecard is included for your reference.

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B. PAYROLL DATES Pay warrants are issued on the tenth working day of each month for previous months service. If the time report is kept up to date and accurate, and the certification required by the State is properly registered and on file with the District, the substitute will be paid on time and for the correct amount.

C. PAY BASIS In accordance with the salary policy adopted by the Board of Education, Substitute Teachers will be paid for a full day if they teach more than four (4) hours. Substitute Teachers who teach four (4) hours or less will be paid for one half (1/2) day.

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D. PAY RATE Day to day substitute: Preschool $125.00 per day Elementary $125.00 per day Middle $135.00 per day High $135.00 per day Long Term substitute: Any level $145.00 per day

A Long Term assignment is one in which you are in the same classroom ten consecutive working days and being present the 11th day. Long Term pay will be retroactive on the 11th consecutive working day.

E. BENEFITS Substitute Teachers paid on an hourly, daily or long term basis are not eligible for health and welfare benefit coverage.

F. PAYROLL DEDUCTION Substitute Teachers are subject to payroll deductions required by law. This includes Federal Withholding Tax and California State Income Tax. Substitute Teachers are not eligible for voluntary pay deductions (i.e. Credit Unions, dues, etc.). Deductions for retirement are not taken for Substitute Teachers except under certain circumstances. If there is a question regarding this, please contact the Human Resources Division for information.

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VI. PROCEDURES FOR CALLING SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS A. THE SUBSTITUTE LIST

The substitute teacher list is made up according to grade levels and/or subject taught. Under normal circumstances, substitutes are requested to teach only in the field in which they are qualified.

B. ABSENTEES CALLING PROCEDURES Regular employees who find that they cannot be at work the day before, can call the Substitute Finder System at (562) 462-0329 or notify their school secretary if they want confirm a substitute.

C. SCHEDULING SUBSITUTE TEACHERS The Substitute Finder System begins calling for substitutes at 5:00 a.m. through 8:00 a.m. the day of the absence and 4:00 p.m. through 10:00 p.m. the day before an absence. The Substitute Finder System also calls during the weekends from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The Substitute Finder System will contact substitute teachers up to ninety (90) days in advance for future assignments entered into the Substitute Finder System. The Substitute Finder System is also available online at https://subfinder.nlmusd.k12.ca.us/webconnect. There is also a link to this site on the District website. All features available to substitute teachers over the telephone are available online. Every attempt is made by the District to contact substitutes by 7:00 a.m. for same day assignments. It is important that substitutes arrive at the school site at the time indicated by the Substitute Finder System. Substitutes called later than 8:00 a.m. (which will happen at times), should try to arrive at the school no later than one (1) hour after having been called. It is important that substitutes do not call the Division of Human Resources inquiring about positions, as this slows down the assignment process. Substitute teachers can log onto the Substitute Finder System, either over the telephone or online, and search for available assignments.

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D. UNAVAILABILITY The Human Resources Division does not need to be notified of unavailability, but that information should be inputted into the Substitute Finder System.

E. TERMINATION DUE TO UNAVAILABILITY

Substitute Teachers who are unavailable to work for our District for a period of five (5) months or longer due to long-term positions at other school districts, illness or other reasons, will be automatically terminated.

CRS Incorporated’s

SUBSTITUTE EMPLOYEE INSTRUCTIONS

You can call SubFinder to review current assignments, review available jobs, cancel a job, and review personal

information.

Remember, SubFinder only works from touch-tone telephones!

TELEPHONE SHORTCUTS: Pressing 9 will take you back to the previous Menu.

Pressing * will allow you to move to the next item when listening to a list of items, such as jobs.

WHEN ACCEPTING A JOB, ALWAYS WAIT FOR THE JOB NUMBER BEFORE DISCONNECTING

OR YOUR JOB ACCEPTANCE MAY NOT BE RECORDED.

F. WHEN SUBFINDER CALLS YOU

To Offer You a Job

SubFinder will call and ask for your PIN followed by pound (#), or press star (*) if you do not wish to receive any more calls during this calling period.

If you chose to enter your PIN, followed by pound (#), SubFinder will describe an available job.

To hear special instructions Press 1 To hear the itinerant schedule Press 2 To continue Press 5

Once you press 5

To accept the job Press 1 To hear the job again Press 2 To reject the job Press 9

If you press 1 to accept the job, SubFinder will play the job information again and give you a JOB NUMBER.

You will be given some of these options as well:

To hear special instructions Press 1 To hear the itinerant schedule Press 2 To hear directions to the site Press 3 To continue Press 5

If you press 2 or 3, the appropriate information will be provided. If you press 5, you will be given two options.

To hear the job again Press 2 To end this call Press 9

If you press 9 to reject the job, SubFinder may ask for a reason for the rejection. After listening to the reasons provided,

select the appropriate reason followed by pound (#). SubFinder will repeat the reason.

If correct Press 1 If incorrect Press 2

To Notify You of a Job Cancellation

When a job has been canceled, SubFinder will call you with notification. You will hear “This is notification of a job

cancellation”. Enter your PIN followed by pound (#).

SubFinder will play the information for the job that has been canceled, including the job number.

To acknowledge the cancellation Press 1 To hear the cancellation again Press 2

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G. WHEN YOU CALL SUBFINDER

YOUR MAIN MENU

To Review Current Assignments Press 1 To Review Available Jobs Press 2 To Cancel an Assignment Press 3 To Review Personal Information Press 4 To Pre-Register for the Next School Year Press 7 To Leave the SubFinder System Press 9

You will hear the Pre-Register option only if your district chooses to use the Pre-Registration option and you have not yet

pre-registered.

MAIN MENU OPTION #1 TO REVIEW CURRENT ASSIGNMENTS

From the Main Menu Press 1

SubFinder will play your next scheduled assignment followed by some, if not all, of the following options.

To hear special instructions Press 1 To hear the itinerant schedule Press 2 To hear directions to the site Press 3 To continue Press 5

If you press 5, you will be given these options.

To hear the job details again Press 2 To hear the next job Press 3 To cancel this job Press 4 To return to the Main Menu Press 9

If you press 4, SubFinder may ask for a reason for the cancellation. After listening to the reasons provided, select the

appropriate reason followed by pound (#). SubFinder will repeat the reason.

If correct Press 1 If incorrect Press 2

SubFinder will ask for confirmation of the cancellation.

To confirm the cancellation Press 1 Otherwise Press 2

MAIN MENU OPTION #2

TO REVIEW AVAILABLE JOBS

From the Main Menu Press 2

SubFinder will describe an available job, if any exist, followed by some or all of the following options

To hear special instructions Press 1 To hear the itinerant schedule Press 2 To continue Press 5

Once you press 5

To accept the job Press 1 To decline the job Press 2 To hear the job again Press 3 To hear the next job Press 4 To return to the Main Menu Press 9

If you press 1, SubFinder will repeat the job information, followed by the JOB NUMBER.

If you press 2, you are REJECTING this job. SubFinder will not offer you this job or call you on this job again. After you press 2 SubFinder will describe the next available job, if any exist, followed by the same options described above.

If you press 4, SubFinder will describe the next available job, if any exist, followed by the same options described above.

MAIN MENU OPTION #3 TO CANCEL AN ASSIGNMENT

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From the Main Menu Press 3

Enter the JOB NUMBER followed by pound (#). SubFinder will play the job information.

To cancel this assignment Press 1 To return to the Main Menu Press 9

If you press 1 SubFinder may ask for a reason for the cancellation. After listening to the reasons provided, select the

appropriate reason followed by pound (#). SubFinder will repeat the reason.

If correct Press 1 If incorrect Press 2

SubFinder will ask for confirmation of the cancellation.

To confirm the cancellation Press 1 Otherwise Press 2

MAIN MENU OPTION #4

TO REVIEW PERSONAL INFORMATION

From the Main Menu Press 4

SubFinder will play the Personal Information Menu

To review your phone number Press 1 To review your name recording Press 2 To review the days of the week you can work Press 3 For the date range menu Press 4 To hear your employee ID Press 5 To return to the Main Menu Press 9

(1) To Review Your Phone Number

SubFinder will play your phone number.

If your phone number is correct Press 1 To change your phone number Press 2

If you press 2, enter the area code and phone number followed by

pound (#). SubFinder will repeat the number.

If your phone number is correct Press 1 To change your phone number Press 2

(2) To Review Your Name Recording

SubFinder will play your name as it is recorded.

If your name is recorded correctly Press 1 To re-record your name Press 2

If you press 2, record your name after the tone.

When you are finished, press pound (#). SubFinder will repeat your name.

If Correct Press 1 If Incorrect Press 2

(3) To Review the Days of the Week You Can Work

To review your availability for

Sunday Press 1 Monday Press 2 Tuesday Press 3 Wednesday Press 4 Thursday Press 5 Friday Press 6 Saturday Press 7 To return to the Main Menu Press 9

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After choosing a day, that day’s availability will be played.

If you would like to change your availability Press 1 To use this schedule for another day of the week Press 2 To return to the previous menu Press 9

If you press 1, SubFinder will ask “Are you normally available to work on (day of the week)?”

If yes Press 1

If no Press 2 For mornings only (6 am until 12 pm) Press 3 For afternoons only (12 pm until 6 pm) Press 4 To enter specific hours Press 5

If you press 1, 2, 3, or 4, SubFinder will repeat the schedule that applies to your choice.

If you would like to change your availability Press 1

To use this schedule for another day of the week Press 2

To return to the previous menu Press 9

If you press 5 for Special Hours:

Step 1: Enter the earliest time (HHMM) that you will be available followed by pound (#). If you will be available from the start of the day, press star (*). If you enter a specific time:

For A.M. Press 1 For P.M. Press 2

Step 2: Enter the latest time (HHMM) that you will be available followed by pound (#).

If you will be available until the end of the day press star (*). If you enter a specific time:

For A.M. Press 1 For P.M. Press 2

Step 3: Enter the minimum number of hours that you are willing to work during this period followed by pound (#).

If you have no preference, press star (*).

Step 4: Enter the maximum number of hours that you are willing to work during this period followed by pound (#). If you have no preference, press star (*).

SubFinder will repeat the schedule you entered.

If you would like to change your availability Press 1

To use this schedule for another day of the week Press 2 To return to the previous menu Press 9

(4) For the Date Range Menu

To add an UNAVAILABLE date range Press 1 To add a DO NOT DISTURB date range Press 2 To review a date range Press 3 To return to the Main Menu Press 9

(1) To Add an Unavailable Date Range

Step 1: Enter the first date that you will be unavailable (MMDD) followed by pound (#). If you will be unavailable

beginning today, press star (*).

Step 2: Enter the beginning time (HHMM) that you will be unavailable followed by pound (#). If you will be unavailable from the start of day, press star (*). If you enter a specific time:

For A.M. Press 1 For P.M. Press 2

Step 3: Enter the last date that you will be unavailable (MMDD) followed by pound (#). If you will be unavailable for only a single day, press star (*).

Step 4: Enter the time (HHMM) that you will be available again, followed by pound (#).

If you will be unavailable through the end of the day, press star (*). If you enter a specific time:

For A.M. Press 1 For P.M. Press 2

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SubFinder will repeat your unavailable date range.

If correct Press 1 If incorrect Press 2

If you press 1, SubFinder will respond “To continue receiving calls during this period, press 1, otherwise press 2.” Pressing 2 will add a Do Not Disturb to the date range as well.

(2) To Add a Do Not Disturb Date Range

Step 1: Enter the first date (MMDD) that you don’t want to be called followed by pound (#).

If you don’t want to be called starting today, press star (*).

Step 2: Enter the beginning time (HHMM) that you don’t want to be called followed by pound (#) . If you don’t want to be called from the start of the day, press star (*). If you enter a specific time:

For A.M. Press 1 For P.M. Press 2

Step 3: Enter the last date (MMDD) that you don’t want to be called followed by pound (#).

If you don’t want to be called for only a single day, press star (*).

Step 4: Enter the time (HHMM) that you wish to receive calls again, followed by pound (#).

If you don’t want to be called until the end of the day, press star (*). If you enter a specific time:

For A.M. Press 1 For P.M. Press 2

SubFinder will repeat the Do Not Disturb date range.

If correct Press 1 If incorrect Press 2

(3) To Review a Date Range

SubFinder will play your most current date range, if any exist.

To hear the date range again Press 2 To hear the next date range Press 3 To remove the date range Press 4 To return to the Main Menu Press 9

If you press 4, SubFinder will ask for confirmation.

If you are sure you want to remove this date range Press 1 Otherwise Press 2

(5) To Hear Your Employee ID

SubFinder will play your SubFinder–assigned ID number.

This number is used only when/if someone needs to request you for, or assign you to, a particular absence.

You DO NOT use this number to identify yourself when you call SubFinder.

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WebConnect Using WebConnect, Substitutes can quickly accomplish routine tasks such as checking Available Jobs and reviewing Current Jobs. The entire workforce has easy-to-use, secure Web browser access to all of the same great features available from SubFinder via telephone, plus additional features optimized for the Web. How Does It Work? WebConnect works in conjunction with your SubFinder system. It uses the existing database and complements the telephone operation of SubFinder. All data becomes instantly available, whether it is entered through WebConnect or by telephone. WebConnect is used to access SubFinder from your home or office computer, or any computer as long as you have access to the internet. Simply enter your District’s web address for WebConnect in your Internet Browser address line (https://subfinder.nlmusd.k12.ca.us/webconnect), tap Enter on the keyboard, and the WebConnect Log In screen will appear. System Access To access WebConnect, simply enter your Last Name in the last name field and your Substitute PIN Number in the Password field (PIN – telephone number without area code). Click the Submit button. The welcome window appears. On the left side of the screen are buttons giving you access to various options. These include Available Jobs, Current Jobs, Personal Info, DND/Unavailable, and Log Out. Example: Last Name: Doe PIN: 8680431 Note: Last Name is not case sensitive. Available Jobs To view available jobs, click the Available Jobs button. WebConnect displays all available jobs for which you qualify. To accept a job, click the Job ID number listed in the Job ID column. Once a job has been selected, WebConnect offers additional details on the job. It will also provide any Special Instructions that have been written for the job. To view site directions, click the hyperlink Site Direction. Note: If the job/absence was entered via telephone and special instructions were recorded, you will see a message to call SubFinder to hear them. Accepting Jobs - You may be presented with up to three options: Reject Job, Accept Job, or Don’t Accept Job. Simply choose the one you desire. If you choose Reject Job you will not be able to view that particular job at a future date. If you choose Don’t Accept Job WebConnect will return you to the main listing of available jobs, but the individual job will be available to review and possibly accept at a later time. If you choose to accept a job, remember to write down the job ID number for future reference (i.e., timecard) Click Accept Job. WebConnect will display the message Job successfully selected and will list any remaining jobs for which you are qualified to work. Current Jobs To view your current assignments, click the Current Jobs button. This will display all of your current assignments including job id, date, site, position, and the employee for whom you will substitute. To view special instructions and/or site directions, click the hyperlinks which are listed in the Special Instruction and Site columns. Note: If the job/absence was entered via telephone and special instructions were recorded, you will see a message to call SubFinder to hear them.

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Cancelling a Job If you need to cancel an Absence/Job, click the Cancel button which is displayed next to each future absence. A screen pops up to enter the reason you are canceling (i.e. illness, family emergency, transportation problems) and to verify that you do, in fact, wish to cancel the Absence, click OK. If you do not wish to cancel the Absence, click Cancel. Personal Information To review your personal information, click the Personal Info button. You will then see several tabs, including General Information, Address, Certifications, and Availability. General Information - the General Information tab displays your Name, your SubFinder generated ID Number, your PIN Number, Total Days Worked for this Year, Total Certified Job Days Worked, your Date of Hire and Date Added (entered) into the SubFinder system and whether you are a Certified and/or Classified substitute. The information under General Information can only be viewed; you cannot edit or change any of the information. Note: Date of Hire and Date Added are the same, both are the date you were added (entered) into the SubFinder system. Address - the Address tab displays your current address and telephone number. You may change your telephone number at any time if you wish to receive calls at a different location. It’s very important that you keep your telephone number up-to-date or you will not receive calls from SubFinder for jobs. If the change is permanent, you must still follow the appropriate procedures your employer requires to make changes to personal information. Note: Changing your telephone number or address on SubFinder does not change your telephone number with Payroll or Human Resources. Certifications - the Certification tab shows any Certifications you may have, as well as their expiration dates. The information under Certification can be viewed only; you cannot edit or change any of the information. Availability- the Availability tab shows your work availability. This reflects what you’ve entered into SubFinder when you’ve called via the phone. You may change your availability at any time. However, just like calling SubFinder via the phone, any changes entered here can alter the availability of certain jobs being offered to you. DND/Unavailable Click the DND/Unavailable tab to add a Do Not Disturb or an Unavailable to your record. Simply click on the Add a Record button. DND and Unavailable can be added for a single day or for a date range, as well as for any time frame in the day. Enter the type, daily time, dates and times you wish and click Add Record. This finalizes and records the transaction and takes you back to the original screen. If the information entered was incorrect, use the Back button on your internet Browser to go back and re-enter the information. Once you have verified that all of the information is correct click the Add Record button. You can also review any DND or Unavailable that is already recorded. To review a DND or Unavailable, enter the start and end dates and the type. Click Review. Log Out When you are finished, click Log Out to leave WebConnect. To log back in, click the hyperlink Click here to log in again.

VII. RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE SUBSTITUTE TEACHER A. ACCEPTANCE OF ASSIGNMENTS

The substitute should be willing to accept most assignments offered by the Division of Human Resources:

Substitutes have the opportunity to register for teaching only on certain days, although this will restrict their use.

There are certain times in a school year that absenteeism

may be unusually high. It is during such critical periods that willingness to teach outside the field of preparation will be very much appreciated.

We are aware that many substitutes are on the list of

other districts. This is very acceptable to us even though it may mean that sometimes a substitute is not available because of an assignment in another district. However, substitutes who develop a pattern of refusing assignments may be dropped from our substitute list, if the substitute teacher has not worked in the last five (5) months.

At times, unforeseen circumstances require the

reassignment of a substitute from the job they originally accepted to another assignment (different teacher, different grade level, etc.). It is expected that ALL employees of a public school system will respond as requested and directed to serve the needs of the children. Failure of a substitute to follow directions by the Human Resources Division to change assignments, to meet the needs of the public education system, when unforeseen circumstances require, will result in loss of pay for the original day and may lead to termination.

B. UNAVAILABLE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME

If a substitute is not available for an assignment for a period of a week or more, please notify the Substitute Finder System and enter a date range of unavailability.

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C. LOCATION OF SCHOOLS All substitutes are furnished a map of the Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District showing the location and address of each school. You may also log onto: http://www.mapquest.com/ to download directions for each school site. Substitutes should familiarize themselves with school location and grade levels taught. It is suggested that each one not familiar with the district take the time to drive to each school in order to be able to find it when called.

D. ARRIVAL AT THE BUILDING

1) Substitutes should arrive at the school site at the time

communicated by the Substitute Finder System. 2) Substitutes must report to the school office upon arrival

at the school before going to the classroom to (1) allow the school to know that you have arrived, (2) obtain information about the assignment and school procedures, and (3) obtain classroom key.

3) The substitute should introduce herself/himself to

teachers in neighboring classrooms if an opportunity to do so is available.

4) Note any particular bulletins for the day. 5) Key(s) should be kept secure and not loaned to students. 6) Substitute should be aware of the Site Disaster Plan.

E. MEETING THE CLASS

1) Before the class arrives, the substitute should go over the

day’s schedule and any other material that would help them plan the day’s activities.

2) When the class arrives, the substitute should introduce

himself/herself. Writing your name on the chalkboard is one way of informing the class(es) who you are.

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3) Usually, a seating chart is left by the regular teacher. If no seating chart is available, it may aid in the identification of students by name if the substitute was to make a chart of where the students are currently sitting.

F. INSTRUCTION

1) The regular teacher will provide detailed lesson plans. If,

for some reason, plans are not available, the principal should be informed. Lesson plans should be adhered to insofar as possible. It is permissible to vary from the regular teacher’s plans if it is determined that the students need additional work in an area.

2) It is a good idea to have some plans of your own that you

can use if there are none from the regular teacher or if the class covers the materials assigned before the end of the day. Other teachers in the same grade level or subject area can be helpful if additional ideas are needed.

G. END OF DAY PROCEDURES

1) CLASSROOM

a) Reference books, teacher guides, seating charts, attendance rolls, etc., are to be returned to the place where the regular teacher had them before you leave for the day. The room should be left in excellent condition at the end of the day.

b) Classroom lights must be turned off and classroom

door(s) locked.

c) All written work assigned by the substitute and completed by the students must be corrected by the substitute.

d) If problems are encountered, please feel free to discuss

them with the principal (or other designated administrator).

e) A brief report should be left for the regular teacher

explaining what was accomplished. Any other comments are also welcomed. Many principals have a

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form to be completed by the substitute, which can be given to the regular teacher. Any unusual happenings that occur during the day should be reported to the school office.

2) REPORTING TO THE OFFICE

a) Before leaving school, the substitute teacher MUST report again to the school office to have the Substitute Time Report of Certificated Employees card initialed.

b) Keys must be returned. c) The substitute should ask if the assignment is to be

continued the next day.

H. PROFESSIONAL ATTITUDE

1) Substitute teachers are expected to maintain the same

ethical standards as regular teachers. 2) Stories or gossip should not be carried from building to

building or to the public. 3) Students should not be discussed in the presence of

others. 4) Substitutes are expected to be at school the same time as

regular teachers. The school office will provide this information upon request.

5) Substitute teachers are expected to deal with students in

a positive way, never using vulgar or derogatory language in front of students.

I. ILLNESS

If a substitute is too ill to teach during an assignment, he/she may call the Substitute Teacher Finder System before 6:30 a.m. to cancel his/her assignment and the system will reschedule another substitute. If unable to call before 6:30 a.m., the substitute should call the Division of Human Resources at (562) 868-0431, ext. 2126 to reschedule a substitute.

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J. COMPLAINTS BY A SUBSTITUTE

On occasion, there may be reason for a substitute to be unhappy with a school situation. In the event this occurs, the substitute is encouraged to report the incident. If there are problems that relate solely to the particular class or assignment, they should be reported to the principal. Concerns about management of the school or other matters not limited to an individual class or assignment, should be reported to one of the administrators in the Human Resource Division.

K. PREPARATION

1) Preparation—It is important for the substitute teacher

to be prepared for any eventuality. 2) Materials—It is helpful to have materials of your own to

use in an emergency situation. a. DIVISION OF HUMAN RESOURCES

In our profession, certain tools can make instructional programs more effective. A variety of charts, models, pictures, and other materials are available to assist substitute teachers in developing activities for classroom use. You are encouraged to utilize these materials. Please call the Division of Human Resources to schedule an appointment.

b. LIBRARIES

Each school is equipped with a library. In addition, there is a large County Regional Library in Norwalk (12350 E. Imperial Hwy.) and a modern County Library in La Mirada (13800 S. La Mirada Blvd.).

c. INTERNET RESOURCES

The Utah State University Substitute Teacher handbook and additional resources, such as links to helpful websites and lesson plan ideas, can be found through the Substitute Teaching Institute. The website

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address is www.subed.usu.edu. Another website, www.enchantedlearning.com, offers step-by-step instructions of activities and instructional material.

d. SUPER SUBPACK

A SubPack is like an emergency preparedness kit for the classroom. It should contain a variety of useful and necessary classroom supplies and materials. The contents of a SubPack can be organized into four categories: Personal and Professional Items, Classroom Supplies, Rewards and Motivators, and Activity Materials. The specific contents of your SubPack will be personalized to fit your teaching style and grade levels you most often teach. When selecting a container for your SubPack, choose one that is easy to carry, large enough to hold all of your supplies, has a secure lid or closure device, and looks professional. Suggested contents are included on the following pages.

L. LENGTH OF SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS’ DAY

To ensure consistency in substitute practices and educational programs throughout the District, substitute teachers will be required to remain at their assignment until staff dismissal time (not student dismissal time). This time requirement is consistent with practices for regular classroom teachers throughout the District.

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Suggested Contents For Your SubPack

Classroom Supplies Crayons

Rubber bands

Markers and/or colored pencils

Labeled ball-point pens (red, blue, black)

Pencils and small pencil sharpener

Transparent and masking tape

Scissors

Glue sticks

Paper clips, staples, a small stapler

Post-it notes (various sizes and colors)

Ruler

File folders

Calculator

Lined and blank paper

Name tag materials

Personal/Professional

Clipboard

Substitute Teacher Report

District information (maps, addresses, phone numbers, policies,

starting times…)

Whistle (useful for P.E. and playground duty)

Small package of tissue

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Snack (granola bar, pretzels…)

Individualized hall pass

Band-aids

Small sewing kit with safety pins

Disposable gloves and small plastic bag - Whenever your encounter blood or bodily fluid you should wear disposable gloves to help safeguard against medical concerns. Small bag or coin purse for keys, driver’s license, money (enough for lunch), and other essential items. Do not bring a purse or planner with a lot of money, checks, or credit cards.

Rewards/Motivators

Mystery box - Place a common item such as a toothbrush or piece of chalk in a small box. Allow students to lift, shake , smell and otherwise observe the box throughout the day. At the end of the day, have students guess what is in the box and award a small prize to the student who identifies the contents correctly. Tickets

Certificates

Stickers

Stamp and ink pad

Privilege cards (get a drink, first in line, etc.)

Activity Materials

The Substitute Teacher Handbook

Picture or activity books

Bookmarks

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“Prop” (puppet, stuffed animal, etc.) - A puppet, magic trick, or even a set of juggling props can capture student interest. Props provide great motivation to complete assignments in order to participate in, learn more about, or see additional pro-related activities. A number cube or dice for games

Estimation jar

Newspaper - A newspaper can be used as the basis for story starter, spelling review, current events discussion, and a host of other activities. Timer or stopwatch

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Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District

SUBSTITUTE TEACHER’S REPORT (To be filed in Principal’s Office)

Date: _______________

Substitute Teacher: _____________________________________________________ Assignment: Grade _________ Teacher ______________________Room ______ Keys Issued: ______________________ Keys Returned: _____________________ Special Duties: _________________________________________________________

Regular Duties: 1. To report to the Principal’s Office at the beginning of the assignment for

any oral instructions that might be given. Also, to “check out” with the principal at the end of the teaching assignment.

2. To carry on the regular work in a conscientious and professional manner, following the daily program and plans of the regular teacher.

3. To maintain good discipline at all times.

4. To keep an accurate record of attendance. Report of Substitute Teacher:

(Use reverse side if necessary)

VIII. EVALUATION OF SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS

Day to day substitutes generally are not evaluated on a formal basis. If a problem develops, a principal will complete a written statement of the situation and send it to the Division of Human Resources. In cases where the Principal is recommending non-reassignment to his/her site, the Division of Human Resources must receive clearance from the principal before reassignment to the aforementioned site is permitted. Substitutes will be mailed a copy of all evaluations. If the substitute teacher disagrees with the information provided on the negative evaluation report, the substitute teacher must first contact the principal to set up an appointment to discuss the issues the substitute teacher may have with the report. The principal will then have the opportunity to rescind the negative evaluation report, and the negative evaluation will be removed from the employees personnel file. If the principal decides to leave the evaluation as is, then the substitute teacher may write a rebuttal to the negative evaluation report. That rebuttal will be placed in the employees personnel file. If the Division of Human Resources receives three (3) negative Substitute Evaluation Reports from Principals, within one (1) calendar year, the substitute will be removed from the district’s available substitute pool immediately. Principals may write positive statements for inclusion in the file of substitute teachers who do outstanding jobs in assignments. These evaluations are used when consideration is being given for long-term assignments or full time employment.

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Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District

SUBSTITUTE TEACHER EVALUATION REPORT

Substitute Teacher: _____________________________ Date: ________________ Grade/Subject: _____________ Teacher: _____________ School: ____________ In order for us to obtain the best substitute teachers possible, we ask you to rate this substitute teacher by checking the appropriate areas that follow. This report may be used by the regular teacher for reporting to the Principal and/or by the Principal to the Personnel Office. YES NO 1. Did the teacher follow the lesson plans? ____ ____ 2. Did the teacher leave a report on each class? ____ ____ 3. Was the attendance recorded properly as far ____ ____ as you were able to judge? 4. Were the desk and room left in order? ____ ____ 5. Do you feel the control in the classroom was ____ ____ satisfactory? 6. Do you feel the teacher has a satisfactory ____ ____ knowledge of the grade/subject areas? 7. Would you want this substitute again in your ____ ____ classroom? If not, why? Comments: (“No” responses must be explained below) ________________________________ _______________________________ School Administrator’s Signature Regular Teacher’s Signature

Site Administrators Recommendation: Positive Evaluations: Place on “Preferred List” and increase assignments to our school Send Letter of Commendation Negative Evaluations: Do not assign to this teacher in the future. Do not assign to our school in the future. Other: _____________________________________________________

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GUIDE TO SUCCESSFUL PERFORMANCE

The following information is designed to answer some of the questions you might ask. These guidelines or checklist will help you perform your role more successfully.

A. HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR ASSIGNMENT

The substitute teacher, to be most effective in the first assignment, should follow this checklist:

Familiarize yourself with the school’s location.

Prepare some learning activities, such as art lessons, special stories, work games, etc., for the levels and/or subjects expected. These are invaluable in helping your assignment to be a success.

Check your handbook for specific rules and regulations

pertaining to students.

Prepare a Super SubPack. More information can be found on page 21.

B. CHECKLIST FOR A SUCCESSFUL DAY

The philosophy of education pursued by the Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District necessitates a variety of teaching techniques. The substitute teacher is alerted to expect a variety of learning situations throughout the District. The following is a checklist to help you orient yourself to a classroom assignment. Survey the room environment and the teacher’s suggested activities to get a feeling of the classroom.

Write directions or lesson plans with approximate times neatly on the board. This will help a great deal in the orderly beginning of the day’s work.

Be informed: The school rules are found in each classroom.

Each school operates to some extent differently and you need to be familiar with these differences.

Be ready when the bell rings to supervise the passing of

students in the classroom and settling into their seats.

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Introduce yourself briefly to the class.

For best results, use a positive, enthusiastic attitude toward the

assignment. Use positive, rather than negative requests and suggestions.

Expect respect and cooperation; be respectful of pupils’ opinions.

Never use vulgar language in front of students.

C. CLASSROOM CONTROL

Classroom control can be the most crucial area of a successful day. We have listed below some suggestions gathered from substitute teachers that will help you better prepare for the class and attempt to eliminate discipline problems before they start:

Have clear and definite directions for lessons and for passing and collecting papers; fairness and careful follow-through are invaluable in maintaining good order.

Positive requests and suggestions, consistency, encouragement,

and praise are effective methods of classroom control. A negative or sarcastic approach is not part of a good teacher’s classroom technique and should never be utilized in classrooms in the Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District.

The teacher’s own behavior is by and large the biggest factor in

successful classroom control. A courteous attitude, which depicts a basic fairness, and a sincere interest in the work, contributes to a well-controlled classroom.

The physical condition of the room is extremely important to

pupil behavior. Be sure ventilation, temperature, and lighting are conducive to a comfortable environment.

Work habits and general classroom procedures should be

maintained so that continuity in learning will take place. Remember, children are important as individuals. Maintenance of discipline at the expense of understanding the child is difficult to reconcile. As a professional person, you have certain unalterable responsibilities to the children in your charge.

IX. OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES

A. Policies—Excerpts from pertinent District policies are presented here to inform and help the substitute teacher, and to guide their actions and decisions while on duty in the school.

1. Early Dismissal of Pupils—Any dismissal including

illness, which results in a student leaving before the regular time, must be approved by the school office. A student should never be permitted to leave school with anyone unless released from the office.

2. Leaving school grounds—Authorization for a student to go

off the school grounds for any reason during the school day is given only by the Principal or his/her designee.

3. Care of Money and Valuables—All money collected at

school should be delivered immediately to the school office.

4. Emergency and Disaster Drills—Fire and other

emergency drills are held regularly in all schools. Training for these is a responsibility of the regular teacher. EMERGENCY AND DISASTER INSTRUCTIONS, including a general description of signals and instructions for procedures, are posted in each room.

5. Emergencies—Any pupil who seems ill should be sent to

the school office with a referral slip and another child as a safety precaution. Any accident to pupil or teacher should be reported to the school office immediately. If it becomes necessary to make out an accident report later, complete details will be required.

6. Homework—A copy of the District and/or school policy on

homework is available in the school office. Before assigning homework to students, become familiar with the policy.

7. Discipline—Classroom control is important and should be

handled in a definite and firm manner by the teacher. Pupils are to treat teachers with respect, and teachers are expected to be respectful in talking with, and in their

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actions toward students. No substitute teacher should inflict CORPORAL PUNISHMENT on a student. This policy is for the protection of the child, the teacher, and the School District. Referral of a case to the Principal or his/her designee should be made only after the teacher has been unsuccessful in bringing about the desired conduct.

8. Field Trips—If the class has been scheduled to take a

field trip, the Principal will confer with the substitute to decide whether the field trip should continue as planned, or be rescheduled for a later date. Pupils going on a field trip must have a signed parent permission form.

9. Keeping Students In—No student shall be required to

remain in school during the intermission at noon, or during recess. A student may be detained at school for up to one (1) hour after the end of the normal school day for disciplinary or other reasons. When it is determined that it is necessary to remain after school, the student’s parents must be notified in advance and any transportation problems resolved.

10. Telephone Calls—School telephones are not generally

available for personal calls. Emergency messages are delivered to teachers and students. Toll calls are authorized only by the school office.

11. Cellular Telephones—Cellular telephones should NEVER

be used in a classroom, this includes text messages, e-mailing, or internet use. A cellular telephone may be turned on silent mode if the substitute teacher is expecting an emergency telephone call.

12. Computers—Using classroom computer for personal use

is strictly prohibited.

B. Responsibilities of the School—The principal or designee, the teacher and the pupil have certain responsibilities to make the task easier for the substitute teacher.

1) Principal (or High School Department Chairperson)

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a) The principal or department chairperson should see that the substitute teacher is given:

A friendly welcome (The staff is encouraged to

introduce themselves to substitutes and to offer help if desired);

An introduction to the class and to a

neighboring teacher when practical;

Information about general building procedures (i.e. hall duties, lunch room duties, restroom privileges of pupils, location of restrooms and teachers’ lounge, etc.);

Information about procedures in case of injury

to a pupil;

Notice of any extra or unusual activities for the day;

Necessary supplies, to carry on the day’s

activities; and

Assistance with procedures for reporting pupil attendance, handling money, and other routine class management problems or procedures.

b) The principal or department chairperson should

encourage the substitute teacher:

To follow the regular teacher’s lesson plan;

To use the best teaching techniques; and

To complete the REPORT OF SUBSTITUTE TEACHER (form P-69).

2) The Regular Teacher

The regular teacher is expected to:

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Leave a schedule of the day’s program in an easily accessible place;

Provide an up-to-date seating chart;

Provide an up-to-date class list;

Provide a list of all students who are to leave

the room for tutoring, speech therapy, office work, etc.;

Leave lesson plans which the substitute can

implement without being completely dependent upon information provided by the students;

Leave notes about special physical problems

that students may have;

State the names of pupils who have special duties;

Have supplies available and textbooks in an

easily located place (if the teacher does not want certain supplies used, it should be indicated);

Leave other general information such as

usual homeroom activities, grading papers of oral work, homework assignments, privileges of pupils in the room, etc.; and

A list of elementary pupils to be transported

home with the location of the bus loading area for each group.

3) The Student

a) Teachers should prepare students to accept the substitute teacher by discussion of possible absence of the regular teacher.

b) Good manners and a helpful attitude should be

encouraged by the regular teacher thus the same

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courtesy will be shown to the substitute as is shown the regular teacher.

c) In high schools it is helpful to have an appointed

student to act as a leader. He/She might take roll, provide information on routine matters, and assist in locating materials.

NOTE: Discipline has been listed as the most pressing problem of substitute teachers. A class that has been prepared to be helpful instead of mischievous will certainly minimize this problem.

C. Guide to Successful Performance

The following information is designed to answer some of the questions you might ask. These guidelines or checklist will help you perform your role more successfully.

How to Prepare for Your Assignment:

The substitute teacher, to be most effective in the first assignment, should follow this checklist:

Familiarize yourself with the school’s location.

Prepare some learning activities, such as art lessons, special stories, work games, etc., for the levels and/or subjects expected. These are invaluable in helping your assignment to be a success.

Check your handbook for specific rules and

regulations pertaining to students.

Attend District In-service class for substitute teachers, when offered.

Prepare a Super SubPack.

WE HOPE YOU ENJOY YOUR EXPERIENCE

AS A SUBSTITUTE TEACHER WITH THE NORWALK-LA MIRADA

UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT!