A six-page kit with a worked lesson example, quick-start sheet, lesson card, grades 3–5 backup activity, and end-of-day note.
Practical ideas and free resources for the people who serve our communities.
A substitute needs a clear place to start. This free six-page kit helps elementary teachers keep reusable classroom information together and add a short, specific plan for each absence.
Keep the basics ready
Separate the base packet—routines, materials locations, contacts, and school procedure references—from the details that change each day. Check those steady details periodically and whenever a routine changes.
Show what a usable lesson looks like
A fictional grade 4 reading example includes the learning goal, materials, opening words, timing, response prompt, and work to collect. It demonstrates how to write a handoff; the example story and response sheet are not included. Use your own assigned materials.
Give your substitute a practical backup
The included “Design a helpful tool” activity uses paper and pencils, takes about 15–20 minutes, and is intended for grades 3–5. Students sketch, label, and explain a classroom invention. Teachers should approve the activity and adapt it to their students before use.
Close the loop
The end-of-day note captures completed work, unfinished tasks, learning to revisit, and helpful routines. Review it when you return, then update the packet for next time.
Use the kit alongside your school’s required procedures. Arrange authorized access to student support information and attendance, emergency, and dismissal instructions. Keep passwords and sensitive student details out of this general handout.
Downloads
- teacher-substitute-handoff-kit.pdf PDF · 174 KB