6 Things to Include in a Substitute Teacher Binder

One of the hardest things a teacher has to do is plan for a substitute. Likewise, one of the hardest jobs a person can have is to be a substitute teacher. To make the experience as positive as possible, I recommend teachers always have a substitute binder, preferably in a bright color, on a prominent shelf in the classroom. To help, I've created free printable substitute teacher binder resources.

Six Things to Include in a Substitute Teacher Binder

#1 Introductory notes that outline classroom procedures and welcomes the substitute teacher.

#2 Basic rules for the classroom and for the school (see my example notes to get ideas).

#3 Seating charts and attendance sheets for every class. These are crucial so the substitute can record each class period’s attendance and also find students easily.

#4 Detailed substitute lesson plans including notes about 1-2 students who can help the teacher if needed and any students that need a little extra attention.

#5 Discipline forms if a student needs to be sent to the office.

#6 Feedback sheet for the substitute to use to take notes about the day.

BONUS: If you have a mint or two you can leave as a thank you to the substitute, s/he will be very happy to come back and sub for you again.

To assist teachers in assembling their substitute binder, I've created printable Substitute Teacher Binder Resources that can be downloaded free of charge.