Back to School Essentials for CRTs

As a CRT, you may not have your own classroom to set up, but you still need to be prepared for each new assignment. To make sure you have everything you need to be successful in the classroom, here are some essential items to consider:

A good planner or calendar:

Keeping track of your substitute teaching assignments can be overwhelming, especially if you work for multiple schools or districts. A planner or calendar can help you stay organized and ensure you don’t miss any important dates. Consider a planner with plenty of space for notes, or a digital calendar that you can access from your phone or computer. Your availability and bookings will also be reflected in your Relief Roster!

A teaching portfolio:

A teaching portfolio is a great way to showcase your skills and experience as a CRT. Include copies of your resume, teaching certifications, and any lesson plans or materials you’ve used in the past. Having a portfolio on hand can also help you prepare for last-minute bookings, as you’ll have a range of resources to draw from.

Classroom management tools:

As a CRT, you may be working with students who are unfamiliar with your teaching style or classroom expectations. Having some classroom management tools on hand can help you establish routines and keep your students engaged. Consider purchasing a timer, visual schedule, or behaviour chart to use during your assignments.

Basic classroom supplies:

Make sure you have the basic supplies you need to get through the day, such as pencils, pens, paper, and markers. It’s also a good idea to bring some extra supplies in case you run out or need them for unexpected activities.

Emergency lesson plans:

Even the best-laid plans can go awry, so it’s a good idea to have some emergency lesson plans on hand in case the original lesson plans aren’t available or aren’t appropriate for the class you’re teaching. Consider creating a few lesson plans that can be adapted for a variety of grade levels and subjects.

By taking the time to gather these essential items, you’ll be well prepared for each day and ready to make a positive impact in the classroom.