Welcome to Substitute Teaching!: An Illustrated Guide to Stepping in and Making a Difference
About this ebook
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.
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About the author
Douglas Fisher is a professor and chair of educational leadership at San Diego State University and a teacher leader at Health Sciences High and Middle College. Previously, Fisher was an early intervention teacher and elementary school educator. In 2022, he was inducted into the Reading Hall of Fame by the Literacy Research Association. He has published numerous articles on reading and literacy, leadership, and curriculum design, as well as books such as Your Introduction to PLC+, Welcome to Teaching, How Feedback Works, Teaching Reading, and RIGOR Unveiled. Fisher loves being an educator and hopes to share that passion with others.
Nancy Frey is a professor of educational leadership at San Diego State University and a teacher leader at Health Sciences High and Middle College. Her published titles include The Courage to Learn, The Art and Science of Coaching, How Scaffolding Works, and The Illustrated Guide to Visible Learning. Frey is a credentialed special educator, reading specialist, and administrator in California and learns from teachers and students every day.
Kierstan Barbee holds a doctoral degree in educational leadership and literacy from the University of Houston. She brings 20 years of education-related experience in PreK-12 settings. She has served as a secondary English Language Arts teacher, academic coach, and professional development supervisor in urban districts as well as a project manager of assessment for learning, which involved creating system-wide professional learning programming for central staff and campuses that promoted the spread of research- and evidence informed practices to maximize teaching and learning. Through an emphasis on relationship-building and human-centered design principles, Kierstan has coached PreK-12 principals, teachers, and district leaders on pedagogical practices that promote equity and student agency in learning.
Sarah Ortega, EdD, is a credentialed bilingual teacher and administrator in California. She served as a classroom educator for 19 years before moving into various leadership positions at the site and district level. In 2023, Sarah was recognized as the Chula Vista Elementary School District Teacher of the Year. Her teaching videos have been featured in professional development training and educator magazines. She is a professional learning consultant and works with schools and districts to design and implement learning solutions that support the emotional, behavioral, and instructional needs of students. She is a co-author of Teaching Foundational Skills to Adolescents and Instructional Strategies to Move Learning Forward.
Taryl Hansen is a visual practitioner and the creator of Frame the Message Ink, LLC (framethemessageink.com). She is an associate trainer for Cognitive CoachingSM and holds a doctorate in teacher leadership and innovation from Arizona State University. Taryl has been trained by Thinking Collaborative and Grove Consultants International, leaders in the fields of learning and cognition. As a live graphic recorder and illustrator, Taryl works internationally to create vibrant and engaging visuals that bring essential elements to the forefront for learners, enhancing retention, driving engagement, and inspiring learners to collaborate in more meaningful ways.
