A Comment From a Reader

Here's a comment from an experienced substitute teacher about whether one should teach in School A or School B:


"I'm an active member of LASUBS and I just read your blog about substitute teaching in ghetto schools. I'm writing to you privately, because if I post for all the group to see, I'd probably get some flak for what I have to tell you.I'd go with school B where the students seem more in tune with learning and stricter rules are enforced. You have no moral obligation whatsoever to work with students in the other school where they can't enforce rules. Don't be a glutton for punishment! You are 70 years old--make it easier on yourself! I'm no longer idealistic about students--they have to be receptive to learning for any to take place. I substitute teach for extra income and medical insurance, as my husband retired earlier this year, and insurance ceased. We are only 60, so not eligible for Medicare. I'd like to hear your thoughts about my response. I wish you the best in your substituting. I've been doing it for 13 years now, and like it for the variety of assignments and the fact that our school day ends at 3:00 pm., unlike a regular teacher. I don't do long terms. I work with elementary and special needs students from pre-K to 5th grade. I don't go into middle and high schools. In LA, you do one or the other, but not both. I assume that you just do secondary school,but I know in some districts they can send you to both elementary and secondary schools. My nephew was a sub for awhile in San Jose-Santa Clara area and he worked in all grades."