What to bring on my first day as a substitute teacher.

Stepping into the classroom for the first time as a substitute teacher is often both exciting and nerve-racking. How will it go? Will the students like you? Are you forgetting anything? 

These are all understandable questions when you first become a substitute teacher, especially leading up to the first day. 

As leaders in substitute educator recruiting and hiring, Kelly Education understands how important it is to feel confident and prepared on day one. That’s why we’ve put together a list of items to consider packing with you before you step into the classroom. 

Items to include on your substitute teacher checklist.

Our experienced substitute teachers recommend putting together a “sub bag” with all the little things that can make your day go more smoothly. There are a few things you “must have” and a few others that are “helpful to have”. As you develop more confidence, you’ll learn what works best for you and the classrooms you support. 

Identification.

Identification is first on the list because it’s the most important thing to remember on your first day as a substitute teacher. Many schools require identification verification to enter the school, and valid forms of I.D. are also used to verify who is in the school at any given time. Therefore, you must bring your state-issued Driver’s License or I.D. with you on your first day and every day after. 

The right mindset.

You’ll have a lot of “firsts” when you begin substitute teaching. Keep in mind that you’ll be learning a lot when you first start. Having patience through the learning process and faith in your ability are essential. Maintain a positive outlook, and trust that you can do this. 

Lunch and snacks.

It’s true that you won’t be able to eat while in front of students. That said, you’ll want to eat when you can—to maintain your energy and avoid hunger pangs throughout the day. Your prime opportunities to grab a bite are during your lunch and planning periods. 

Consider bringing the following with you: 

• Lunch 

• Snacks 

• Water 

• Sealable coffee thermos with your beverage of choice 

Back-up classroom supplies.

The classroom where you’re substitute teaching should have the supplies you need. Still, it’s best to be prepared in case something is missing or you can’t find what you need. 

Here’s a list of supplies that are handy to carry with you: 

• Dry erase markers 

• Pens 

• Pencils 

• Poster markers 

• Highlighters 

• Sticky notes 

• Notebook 

Student activities to fill time.

Teachers usually leave behind lesson plans to keep the students focused on learning the school’s curriculum. Even with plans, you may have extra time and need to keep the students engaged. You can bring age-appropriate read aloud books, word searches, crossword puzzles, or coloring pages—you should be able to make copies at the school. If you aren’t sure if something would work, talk with a neighboring teacher or administrator. 

You might also want to check out our compilation of back up to lesson plan activities. We’ve divided them up by grade level and subjects: 

Elementary classes  

Middle/high school classes  

Personal care needs.

No one likes to scrounge around for a tissue or a safety pin when you need one! The following are items that many substitute teachers find helpful in the event of emergencies or mishaps. 

• Sanitizer 

• Lip balm 

• Personal hygiene items 

• Band-aids 

• Sewing kit 

• Safety pins 

• Tissues 

• Stain remover sticks or wipes 

Important contact information.

Have a list of relevant contact information handy. You just never know if you’re going to need to contact someone with a question or concern: 

• School administration 

• Nurse’s office 

• Additional behavioral support 

• Employer phone number (Like Kelly Education talent care) 

Additional tips & tricks.

The following suggestions come from other substitute teachers who have been in your shoes. These are items they recommend to help you throughout the day: 

• Clipboard to clip items like: 

• Lesson plans 

• Seating charts 

• Rosters 

• Emergency plans 

• Stickers or other rewards and motivators 

• Teacher note template (a structured way to leave a report about the day) 

• Whistle if you’re responsible for P.E. or recess 

• A light sweater in case you feel chilly in the classroom 

Become a substitute teacher with Kelly Education.

Considering becoming a substitute teacher but unsure where to start? Kelly Education recruits and hires substitute teachers for thousands of schools across the U.S. 

If you’re ready to the next step, fill out our interest form. A Kelly Education recruiter will contact you to share about opportunities and answer your questions about becoming a substitute teacher. 

Are you ready to make a difference with flexible work that matters? Visit myKelly to learn more!