Creating the Ultimate Substitute Binder
As teachers, we know it’s important to be prepared for the unexpected. Whether it’s a sudden illness, a family emergency, or a planned absence, having a substitute teacher step into your classroom can be nerve-wracking. The key to a smooth transition? A well-organized substitute binder. This will ensure that your substitute teacher has everything they need to manage your classroom but also helps maintain continuity for your students.
Today I’m excited to share my editable substitute binder that you can use in your classroom! If you want to make sure sub days are less stressful, you’ll want to put together this sub binder!
What’s in the Sub Binder
Here’s what’s included in my 18-page sub binder:
- binder cover
- welcome letter
- class information page
- school information page
- class list
- schedule
- arrival procedures
- attendance page
- daily routine
- today’s plan
- lesson plan pages
- dismissal procedures
- medical needs page
- emergency procedures page
- teacher contacts page
- feedback page
Cover Sheet
I recommend using a 3-ring binder and placing the cover sheet in front. You can personalize this to add your name to the cover, too!
You might also want to add a friendly note welcoming the substitute and thanking them for stepping in.
Contact Information
On the first page inside the binder, provide your contact details and emergency contact numbers. List the school’s phone number, the main office, and the names and numbers of other teachers or administrators who can assist in case of questions.
I’ve been a sub and it is very stressful for me when I don’t have all the information I need! That’s why I added several pages of school and class information to this packet.
Schedules and Routines
Provide a detailed schedule of your class’s daily routine. Include start and end times for each subject or activity, as well as any special schedules for the day (e.g., early dismissal or special assemblies).
Emergency Procedures
- Safety First: Provide detailed instructions for emergency drills (fire, lockdown, tornado, etc.). Include maps of the evacuation routes and the location of emergency supplies (e.g., first aid kits).
- Medical Information: If any students have medical conditions or allergies, list their names and the necessary steps to take in an emergency. Be sure to include the school nurse’s contact information.
Lesson Plans
Leave clear, step-by-step lesson plans for each subject. If possible, include any necessary worksheets, handouts, or activities. Make sure your plans are easy to follow, with enough detail that a substitute unfamiliar with the material can teach it effectively.
Student Lists
Make sure to include a current student roster. This helps the substitute quickly learn students’ names and maintain order in the classroom. I also included an attendance sheet.
Feedback Page
Make sure to set out a feedback page for your sub to fill out! It will give you insight into how the day went for the sub and your students.
How to Use the Printables
There are two options for using this printable packet.
- Print the pages and fill in the pages using a writing utensil.
- Use Google Slides to personalize the printable so you can type in all the editable fields.
Either option is great! If you like typing and you want to be able to easily edit the printables, then I recommend using the Google Slides option. There is a link to make a copy of my template in this download.
Printable
If you would like to use these printables in your classroom, you get them for less than a cup of coffee!
>>> You can find them in my store HERE.
Remember…having a substitute binder is more than just a collection of lesson plans and schedules; it’s a lifeline for anyone stepping into your shoes. By taking the time to create a detailed, organized binder, you’re not only helping your substitute but also ensuring that your students continue to learn and thrive, even when you’re not there!
