Really ticked off about some of my 8th Graders. Apparently, they were really bad for my Substitute teacher. I am also so very disappointed and this also means that I will be making phone calls home tomorrow, plus writing up detentions.

This really pisses my off. Unlike some, I will not reward my students for good behavior with a sub. That is what is expected, period. While I rarely had a problem when I’m was out, or was, (I’m recently retired) the kids knew if they treated a sub with disrespect or didn’t get work done, they knew that they would be crafting a professional business letter (ELA) with an apology to the sub. If they were not directly involved, they would write a professional letter to me with suggestions of how to curb this behavior if I was out again. This strategy accomplishes two goals…letter writing skills, and self reflection and problem solving. It must be typed up and submitted. It works.

We use a class compliment system. I agree that we should not reward students for meeting expectations, but when the class goes above and beyond and another teacher notices enough to mention it and compliments my class, then we acknowledge that and it goes on the board and after 10 they get to cash in or keep earning them for something better.

I hear that; I always worry whenever we have a substitute. However, I did see someone mention something here that I want to try out the next time that we have to bring in sub. Apparently, they set up this system where the class gets a reward or a demerit based on what the substitute has to say about their behavior. She said it works wonders for her so I'd like to try out, maybe it's something you can consider too?

I had to get over how my students acted with subs. I can't control what I am not there for. It doesn't matter how good a class is for you, they can be wild animals with a sub. It also depends on how the sub is with the class. I have had great subs and those that "power trip" on the class. I'll get horrible notes from subs, then I talk to reliable students and find out the sub was antagonizing and instigating with some of the students. Some subs go above and beyond to make sure the class is doing what they are supposed to and others just babysit. I have tried rewards and calls home, write-ups, you name it. As the old saying goes, when the cats away, the mice will play. Punishments won't work. Rewards might, but don't get upset if they do the same behaviors next time you're out. Just do your best to make sure they have an engaging assignment that's not just busy work and make sure you grade it, but even then students will see your absence as a day off for them.

I just tell my kids that when we have a sub, consequences are double for bad behavior because it’s extra mean to mess with a person who doesn’t quite know what’s going on. I’ve never had anything too crazy happen.

Wow I am so sorry to hear that OP but I have been in your shoes and it really is disappointing. I would definitely be having a talk with them and issuing punishments accordingly.