I have worked at schools were almost every teacher I saw had a pair of blue jeans on. While I can understand why one would want to wear blue jeans, as a substitute teacher I do not have that luxury. I do not think that I would wear blue jeans even if I were permanently assigned to a school. In my graduate training, my school stressed that a teacher must dress professionally in business casual attire. My employer, an educational service, also requires that their teachers dress in business casual attire.
When I went for my interview for my first teaching job, I went in my "interview suit." It is a two piece, black pinstripe suite, which I wear with black medium heels and a white shirt. I also make sure my follow up outfit (business casual) is just as nicely put together. When I go to an assignment at a school that I am reporting to for the first time, I also put my best foot forward. I make sure that my appearance is neat and well put together. I wear comfortable shoes to be sure, but, good quality shoes that do not look worn out. I do not want my students for the day to see a drab looking washed out lady. I endeavor to look fresh and ready to go (even if I do not feel like it).
Be Professional
I follow the guidelines of my employers. If there is a question, I also contact my employer, the agency I work for. I do not ask the school administration anything about their expectations, because I must meet the expectations of my agency. My employer expects me to be ultra professional (which is the usual expectation for all types of temporary workers). If I meet their expectations and follow their guidelines, I will have no problems with the expectation of the school were I am working, because their expectations will be exceeded, which I am sure is the point.
In closing, when preparing for work I:
- Make my travel plans the day before
- Lay out my clothing the day before
- Prepare lunch the night before
- Bring my tool kit (in my valise)
- Use Google map or my GPS for directions
- Make sure I have the name/address of the school, name of the teacher and job number
- Do not use perfume or hand sanitizer at work (some students may have allergies
- Check in at the office when I arrive
- Get telephone number to the office if I am in the room alone
- Straighten up the room (without re-arranging it) and leave a written report
- Check out by going to the office before I leave
- Make a note in my daily log with a rating of school for future reference
Link to Emergency Substitute Packet:
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