Good Reviews from the Subs!

"Miss Kandice" Alkire fills in during Mr. Euler's math class

Substitute teachers don't always have an easy job - it can be a real challenge to step into a classroom full of students you may not know very well, take up another teacher's plans for the day, and ensure that meaningful instruction and activities take place in the regular teacher's absence.

Of course, having a substitute can be challenging for students as well, with changes in routine and perhaps expectations part of the "normal" when a substitute steps into the classroom.

DPCA is blessed with a group of great substitute teachers we call on when a regular teacher is sick or has other personal or professional needs away from the normal classroom schedule. Each time a substitute completes an assignment, he or she fills out a report sheet that includes opportunity for reporting how the day or class went.  Given the challenges of a classroom hour or day with a substitute teacher, one might expect that feedback from "subs" could be filled with angst about the day or about the student's behavior - but reports from substitutes at DPCA are most often filled with great reviews on the students and the atmosphere at school and in the classroom.  Here are typical feedback comments received from our DPCA substitute teachers:

We had an excellent morning. Diligent students - It was fun to discuss the pilgrims and Thanksgiving and prepare for chapel, in addition to regular studies.

I can really feel that the students are getting to know the Lord.  The students help each other and myself by making me feel welcome.

I had a great time. All the students were very respectful.

Encouraging, pleasant school to work in! Christian atmosphere which not only includes Bible class, pledges, prayer time and social issues, but the whole "mood" and culture of the school.

The kids were very respectful.

I had a very fun day! 

We're grateful for a great group of substitutes who make it possible for us to carry on when our teachers need to be absent for a time, and grateful too that the character of our students facilitates productive work and positive relationships when the "subs" come to work!