Each new substitute teaching assignment brings with it a new day of possibilities.
The day starts when a sea of young faces stare at you from their desks, testing the first introductory words out your mouth.
They’re always trying to get a sense of who you are as a substitute– but for me, they stare because I’m younger than what they’re used to.
I still remember my first week as a substitute teacher, and I can confidently say it was nerve-wracking. As a college student, I felt like a fish out of water. The world of substituting was something new, exciting, and… honestly? Plain intimidating.
Every substitute can relate to those first-week jitters.
For young substitutes, however, there’s an element of concern specific to young adults that are mixed in with the regular nerves. Though subbing can be a rewarding journey– either as a career stepping stone or flexible way of earning money– it can be more challenging for younger teachers.
There have been great times of growth and connection with the students, but there have been a fair share of difficulties as well. If you’re also a young substitute teacher, here are my best tips for navigating this unique (and temporary!) circumstance.
Embracing the Challenges as a Young Substitute Teacher
As a young substitute, the most common challenge I’ve faced is not being taken seriously as a teacher by both students and administration. Walking in and establishing yourself where students who may be close to you in age can be difficult. If you’re like me, a lot of the kids I teach are only three to four years younger than me. Because of this, I’ve often had my boundaries pushed and authority tested more times than I can count.
Tip 1: Start each class by establishing clear expectations and objectives for the day. Be confident when you introduce yourself and outline rules and potential consequences. Most of all, stick to them consistently. Students may think that because you’re close in age you could be friends, but the quicker you shut the idea down, the better your day will be.
Tip 2: Leave out personal details. If students ask about your life, give a quick answer and move on. When a student asks my age I say “old enough to be a substitute”. If they ask for my social media handles, I tell them my profiles are private.
A big personal concern on my mind, especially as a younger substitute, is flirting or romantic advances brought on by high schoolers. My policy has always been to write down what happens or what is said to me. After the first advance, I write it down and warn them to cut the behavior. Should it continue, I continue to document the behaviors and send the student to the office.
Tip 3: Dress professionally. It can be tempting to wear jeans and T-shirts if the dress code allows for it. But put some intention into your outfit– if you want to be treated as a professional, dress like one. I’m not at all saying wear a suit or a three-piece pant set, but stick with business casual style to the best of your ability. It communicates that you are serious and capable as a substitute.
Tip 4: Take assignments at the same schools, and establish yourself. Talk to administration when you can, be consistent, and get to know the teachers around you. The more administration (and students) see you around the more they will develop a better opinion of you.
Administration has surprisingly been the most difficult challenge I’ve faced as a young substitute. There have been many instances where my capability is questioned and teachers have even tried to cancel the shift assignment once I walk in and they see how young I am.
Coming across as professional in one’s dress and demeanor as well as becoming well-known at a school can all aid in establishing your reputation in the eyes of administration. Keep showing up and giving it your best!
Leveraging Your Youthful Advantage
For new or even prospective substitutes, the challenges I listed can be intimidating and make you question if subbing is the right path for you.
I’d still advocate for giving it a try, despite the challenges. Substituting can bring so many rewarding aspects into your life that you won’t find in many other career choices, especially as a young adult.
A great and often overlooked advantage of being a young substitute is that we can be more relatable to students and connect with them more easily. Being closer in age allows for a bridge in the generational gap that might make students less likely to reach out to their teachers about certain classroom struggles. Your recent experience as a student gives you the perspective to understand the challenges they face–from academics to social dynamics.
The greatest benefit of all has been the experience of acting as a role model for the students, even if it’s for a brief period of time. Middle and high school students are at an especially formative stage where adult guidance is most important.
Whether it’s discussing college applications, career aspirations, or even just tips to help students make it through school, your more recent insights will strike a chord with them. By being a role model in a career typically dominated by older individuals, you demonstrate success and professionalism that will inspire students, making your presence impactful even if you do not verbally share advice with them.
Rolling with the Good and Bad of Being a Young Substitute
There are plenty of disadvantages to this job. As a substitute, you’ll even face age-specific challenges.
Being young won’t last forever, though, and you’ll gain experience and even more confidence (then just wait until you encounter the challenges that come with being older!).
But we stay in it because it’s worth it– it’s worth the meaningful connections made, and the flexible income it provides.
When it feels like you have days where everyone doubts you for your age, remember that you bring a youthful perspective that bridges gaps and inspires a lasting impact!
If you’re a young substitute and want to share challenges or positives I didn’t mention please share them in the comments. We could all use more encouragement as substitutes!
You can connect with Alex on LinkedIn.
