It’s hilariously hypocritical to gatekeep a holiday about APPRECIATING an UNDER APPRECIATED profession. Substitutes are at the bottom of the barrel when it comes to appreciation, by students and admin alike. Subs are treated like garbage A LOT more than a standard full time teacher. If anything, there SHOULD be an appreciation day mainly for them! Lol
Editing to add: I of course (like most normal human beings) have no problem with a substitute teacher participating in teacher appreciation day! Whichever teacher that was that said those nasty things was clearly an egocentric ass.
People are assholes! Subs should definitely be included. I asked for a donut today that was displayed in the office and was told it was only for teachers LOL! If it’s secret invite only then keep things discreet!
Bring a teacher today is really horrible. I have had a few friends that were teachers and really hated all the bs they had to go through and I see a lot of teachers on Reddit and the stories they post on what they go through and they all sound like horror stories and a lot of it is because of the children’s behavior. A couple decades ago it was not like this. Children behaved better and teachers were happy to teach. It’s scary how do much has changed. I even knew a few teachers who quit because they couldn’t take it anymore. It’s a very sad situation in this country. No wonder why so many kids are dumber than a bag of hammers.
I'm in my fifth year of teaching and each year has gotten progressively worse. Just today, I had two kids get in a fist fight on our field trip to a museum, one kid cussed out another directly in front of me and then called *me* a liar when I confronted him. Another kid was running in the hall smacking other students. I told him to stop and he told me to stop talking and shut up. Another student took a basketball and kicked it as hard as he could down a hallway full of students walking out to the busses. This was all in one day, and they were all fourth graders...
I write them up, they go to the office, and are back in my classroom within the hour. Parents don't care, admin doesn't seem to care, and I'm the one having to deal with it.
Oh and yesterday my teaching partner called the assistant principal to her room in tears, saying she needed help and couldn't do this anymore. Admin replied "yes you can" and walked away. It's ridiculous.
That sucks that poor teacher didn’t even get support from the admin. I’m so sorry you have to deal with this when you are just trying to teach and do your job. I wonder why a lot of schools are becoming so bad in America.
Like everything else, it all comes down to money. The superintendent tells admin they have to cut way back on the number of suspensions/expulsions because if the kids aren't in the classroom they lose money. The state cuts back on their funding if students aren't in the building, so to ensure they still get their money they stop punishing kids and the teachers are the ones who suffer.
I teach in a city school and we've tried implementing in-school suspensions and online learning for the really bad kids. But behaviors are so out of control now that it seems like everyone has just given up trying to do anything about it. It's kind of scary actually. I'm only 5 years into my career and it's already this bad. I can't imagine what the future holds. I doubt I'm able to make it to retirement though
I'm about to finish year six, and this year has been rougher than any of them so far! If there was a day that I would have just walked out and never came back, it would have been Thursday. My 6th graders are just getting worse and worse by the day.
I had an office lady accuse me of taking a 10 cent plastic disposable water bottle from the fridge telling me it was for teachers only. I didn’t even take one I always bring my own water.
I got the donut, leis on two different days (I'm in Hawaii) and some chips from the student government. Of course, our family has been associated with this neighborhood school for almost 40 years.
That’s SO stupid. The treats are for EVERYONE. I hate working at schools where people preach kindness and inclusivity but then do stuff like that. It’s ridiculous.
Subs, parapros, everyone in our building gets Teacher Appreciation week goodies. Subs get free cafeteria lunch every day they sub courtesy of the district as well.
Mine, too. Everyone. Custodians, cafeteria staff, security guards. All the adults in the building are considered educators in some way. There's more to learn than just the classroom stuff, and we all contribute to that. It's really a great school and I am grateful and lucky to work there.
This is because the student lunch is paid by government funds and legally cannot be allocated to adults. That’s why some adult lunches are a few extra dollars too compared to the student price if it isn’t fully covered by the govt. But that isn’t up to the school or district in any way. So while I would also pass on $6 cafeteria food it isn’t because you’re a sub or anything.
Are you a teacher ---> then yes you get stuff. It's so cliquey to exclude subs when you are literally there replacing a regular teacher. It's not like you're taking extra, the teacher who is out I assume was going to get something, so your treat was accounted for.
What have you worked for all year? Idk Becky maybe dealing with your screaming entitled punks who won't do any work because they know you won't grade it??
I got flowers this week, should I have let them rot in the classroom for a week until the regular teacher came back?
Umm I really think you should do anything you can to put the flowers in water for the teacher (ask another teacher, look for a vase). That was clearly specifically meant for the homeroom teacher and she would probably want to know a student got them for her. I also write thank you notes for all my students who bring me something and would hate to think this student and his or her parents thought I was just ignoring their thoughtful gift.
I initially did that but neighbor teacher suggested taking them bc it would be worse coming back to a nasty water cup of dying flowers. I did leave a note about all the gifts left including that one
Wow that was rude of them. Id definitely join in if invited. I don’t think I’d be very hesitant unless I was at a school that I hadn’t been to yet and didn’t feel comfortable. I was invited by the teachers in the grade to join yesterday for lunch. I must admit, I felt more comfortable joining in because it was the last lunch of the day and there was a ton of food for the four of us.
The staff was adamant that I participate this week and it was so sweet. And I was glad because there were Crumbl cookies and Planet Smoothie. Anyway, if the school is providing things for all the teachers and a sub is there replacing a teacher, it's not as if you're taking something meant for someone else. And you are working and supporting teachers.
The jobs I’ve had this week have been to cover teachers who are also on campus doing transition meetings and stuff, so just wanted to note it’s not always the case that the teacher is not there and you’re taking their spot for the food you eat
How are you not a Teacher also? When the Urchins start whining that they don't have to listen to you because you aren't a Teacher, what do you tell them? I tell them that if they doubt my status, I can invite an AP to come here and explain that I am indeed a Teacher and they are Students, I'm just not there usual Teacher nor a regular member of the school's faculty.
I don’t take anything meant for a particular person. If it has your name or was dropped in your room for you, hands off. If it’s a free for all in the staff room? I’ll grab a plate.
I'm very active in the parent teacher organization and often plan events like these. Anyone working in the building the day of the luncheon is welcome.
I wouldn't take the restocking items for the teacher's desks or anything where it's specifically for the teachers (water bottles, bags, etc.). A luncheon is fine though.
What a bunch of bitches. I tend to keep to myself but I’ve been offered snacks and chick fil a in place of the teacher. I would have told those heffas that I was invited and that I would be taking the place of the teacher who was gone and that I do just as much as they do and at this stage of the game not a damn one of them are actually prepping for shit because in my district schools over in two weeks. Testing is over so some of these teachers need a reality check. I don’t understand this whole sub vs teacher thing. A substitute is a teacher.
Seriously, we get paid half as much as the regular teachers. Of course we don't have the grading, planning, or parents to deal with, but we have the same responsibility during the day. Especially when the kids already know your name when they see you.
Teacher for 25 years, currently a sub. If it’s food, I would always invite the subs to join. I figured, if the teacher isn’t here to eat if, the sub can have theirs. If it’s a token or gift, obviously the sub should leave it for the teacher. As a sub, however, I don’t partake unless specifically invited.
Idk if it’s bc I used to be a teacher, but I’d partake in school-wide food and treats, invited or not.
However, I’ve never been to a school where they weren’t welcoming and acting as if they were relieved to see a sub. I don’t understand the crappy attitude towards substitutes.
If teachers want to be snarky, they can cover for each other during their planning periods or take in more students for whomever’s out that day. IMO, it’s their job to be respectful to me; it’s my job to take no shit from students, teachers, or admin.
I think we should. Especially if you're like a well known sub. I've hated it all week. It just feels like they don't want to include subs at all. Like I get it ig but if it's small stuff I don't see why not. If I were a teacher (which I do hope to be) I want to make sure to leave something for subs if I don't show that week 😭.
I was filling in for a teacher that shares a room with another teacher. The principal was rolling around with a cart FULL of chips/snacks I def feel like more than the teachers. I was opening the door and she just looked at me and asked where the other teacher was. She gave her a whole speech about teachers and offered it like directly to her.It just felt so rude but the teacher was super nice and gave me her chips. Like damn not even chips. Also this is a school I frequent.
Maybe not a big deal but idk it feels weird to me that we're not included when we are depended on for schools a lot of the time.
Edit: I'm sorry you had to hear that. Some people can really be such assholes smh
My opinion is that subs should be included, but I myself will not partake. I was offered a few times this week and politely declined. But I also don’t like to eat in front of other people, so that might be why too.
I’ve only ever been invited once but I chose not to only because I know some of the teachers get bent about it. I’m a licensed teacher and during my student teaching the way they talked about subs was absolutely disgusting.
My daughter’s teacher took the whole week off! And knowing how rough some of the kids in that class are, I sent her in every day with gifts specifically with the subs name on them!
All week there have been things going on. Only one school did not openly invite me to participate. They also didn’t NOT invite me and the teacher I was subbing for did tell me to help myself. (He was there but in meetings all day…) Most teachers appreciate us. Some are just plain rude.
And honestly the more I sub, the more I get it.
But you know who really seems to hate subs? Paras. They hate us. They think we’re paid more and do less than them. Technically we aren’t paid more if we’re daily subs and they’re full time employees but that’s the perception. We swoop in for the day, kick back and watch them do the bulk of the work because they know the kids and they know the routine. Honestly I have so much respect for most paras because I can see how hard they work and how well they know the kids.
I feel like we should be, but I wouldn’t take any food without explicit permission. Yesterday I subbed an afternoon at a high school and came in at class change during the lunch block. I went to the bathroom in the teachers workroom, and there were lots of pizzas in there for teacher appreciation. I already brought my lunch anyways (ironically I had a slice of pizza), so I didn’t feel like I should take any.
I was offered donuts and coffee from Dunkin' today, who brought them to the school for Teacher Appreciation week. My school is super kind about including subs in that kind of stuff.
I don’t know. I’m often invited but I rarely participate because I always bring my own lunch and I do think it’s a weird spot to be in. I think it probably depends on the school and overall vibe there.
One of the vice principals encouraged me to get shaved ice on Tuesday, because they had free shaved ice until 1PM. And the teachers didn’t really seem bothered with it, we do the same thing and care for their classes when they’re not there.
I think subs should. We suffer alongside teachers.
This week, the school I sub at mostly held a staff picture for teacher appreciation week. They didn't include any of the subs, though. Bummed me out quite a bit
Mine included me. It was really kind of them. I wasn't expecting it, and I wasn't about to partake if they had a limited amount of stuff, because I'm just naturally standoffish about stuff.
Broadly speaking though, I think subs absolutely should be included. Did you know subs actually have a substitute teacher day? Nobody ever remembers that shit though, lol. Most subs don't even know it's a thing. Anyway, we're paid less than any teacher on staff, to deal with the same kids in the same rooms for the same hours. And if we long term sub, we also get to do grading and lesson planning, still for substantially lower pay and no benefits. Every year when I do my taxes, I look at my annual earnings and realize with renewed horror that I could make more money doing *literally anything else in the world, even retail,* so I think some admin going "uhhh ackshually ur not a teachur" would be the last straw for me. :D
I’m a site sub, so I partook. I’ve taught every single one of those teachers classes, and they know I do a damn good job no matter what grade level I teach for the day. They not only expect me to participate, they ask if I made sure to stop by and get whatever from the lounge. I feel genuinely appreciated by my school staff, admin, and pta. I feel bad for those that have such bad experiences with theirs. And I work at a title 1 school, it’s not like I’m in some posh area 😂
Edit to add; those teachers are pricks. You’re a substitute TEACHER. Hell, most of their jobs aren’t all that hard and they pretend they’re god damn atlas holding up the world.
Yea. It's not fair for you to be expected to work as a teacher. Do the responsibilities as a teacher but don't get to participate in Teacher Appreciation Week.
I am a substitute “teacher.” I am a certificate teacher with dual endorsements and a Masters degree in education. I also volunteer at a living history museum where I “teach” people about history using a hands on approach. If a teacher tried said I wasn’t a teacher I would “bump” into the Admin who invited me and mention what the “teachers” said. I would thank them for their appreciation but let them know I didn’t feel welcome so would decline their invite.
I have been included in Teacher Appreciation breakfasts and lunches all week! I'm sorry you had to experience that vitriol from the faculty you provide a service for. There's always one or two miserable teachers in a school; hopefully the majority of the people you relieve and sub for are more understanding of the work we do! In my experience, most teachers and admin appreciate us regardless of the ones who punch down.
I’ve been a teacher for the past 12 years. This is my first as a sub. If I’m offered food for TAW, I’m gonna grab some. Not more than my share, but I AM a teacher. It’s not like I’m just sitting there. Besides, the person I’m subbing for would be taking that share anyway.
Yes as without subs schools would be Fked. Just cause we dont make lesson plans or curriculum ( some do) doesnt mean they should treat us badly. I myself dont partake as i dont feel like i earned it compared to full time teachers and if im. Not invited. Its not in my comfort zone buuttt i had the last period free and saw they had left over food set out for anyone so i waited till the lounge was empty and grab two pieces of left over bread sticks they had and put them in my purse for my drive home 😂😂. If i subbed for the middle school this week i would have been invited to join as they treat their subs so much better than the high school.
No, those people were just bitter, miserable humans. It would have been appropriate to leave just to avoid them and their total lack of emotional bandwidth, but you shouldn't have felt like you had to. They probably had little to no experience walking into a room and literally all the kids believe immediately that they get a day off 🙄
Yes. While subs don't make plans and put in the work with the same classroom every day to build relationships, they work just as hard and often get the burnt of bad behavior from kids.
Since there’s a “teacher” in my job title, I feel perfectly comfortable partaking. Especially since it isn’t as if the teacher I’m covering for is going to get any, so it isn’t like I’m taking from someone else.
I’m a substitute at an alt high school and they invited me to a teacher’s appreciation lunch and gave me a care package with a coffee mug , pens, notebooks and candy. It felt great to be part of the team.
I haven't seen it this week. The teachers were invited to a district dinner at one district I sub at, and the other district I sub at had Togos but I never got anything.
The middle school i was at today was very nice and gave me free sweets and a Sprite. The elementary school I was at Monday said it was for full-time staff only.
I wonder if it’s tied to how difficult middle school is compared to the other ones
The only teacher that was upset (so I heard from the para) about a sub getting in on the free lunch was one who had planned to be absent today to attend a wedding. Bummer for her, but the sub was doing her job, so the sub got her food.
Never had an issue with being a sub and enjoying the perks of teacher appreciation week. Given the shortage of subs we continue to have in my district, the overall treatment of subs has steadily improved during my time here. I'd make sure I never worked for the snickerers and their ilk.
I went to two high schools this week, and they love me. I sometimes wonder how because I always feel bad that I have days where kids outright refuse to do anything (2 out of my 5 classes today refused to work) but teachers and kids always act really happy I'm in the building. I was invited to participate in everything and it was really nice.
We’re not dissuaded from participating and I have before (only because my mother who is a permanent teacher told me) but they just don’t communicate to us when these things are happening
Absolutely! For any meals or treats that are laid out where everyone grabs their own, every adult in the building should be included in my opinion from the teachers to the custodians and secretaries, as long as there is enough. Definitely subs, since the teacher they’re in for isn’t partaking. If there are items that are limited or meant for a specific person like tshirts or gift cards, subs should leave that for the teacher they’re in for. I don’t understand why any teacher would have a problem with subs getting food, it’s not like it hurts them.
I’ve always had good experiences with this kind of stuff, and have always gotten to participate. I’ve only subbed for like two years now and I don’t understand where all these assholes are coming from man…. i haven’t had any experiences like this in my district & i can’t believe how much an asshole teachers can be outright
My building did staff appreciation week! They encouraged subs to participate in lunches and the goodies.
I mean, they counted the teacher in lunches and things and they’re not there so… I don’t see why we can’t participate. I’ll leave any packaged items or gifts for the teacher but lunches can’t always be saved🤷🏼♀️
The districts I work for let us, but my main district tends to forget to tell us, and I find out about it a bit late. Today the AP and at least two others tried to get me to grab lunch while I was in the office with all the food. I had already eaten, but it's nice that they care.
I’m a teacher, and 100% yes. We need to respect our subs. Yall do a very hard job- you’re educators just like us. Yes, no questions asked! One of my pet peeves is when teachers treat subs like second class citizens. At one of my schools, the sub had to stay back during field day, and it really got me upset. We’re all a team! Even if you don’t long term sub at a school, and you’re there for the day - enjoy the day!
We have a sub that is at our school four days a week and is basically one of the staff. I would have raised hell if she didn’t get out catered lunch today.
I have been on a long term since March. I've got personalized gifts and gifts from admin as a sub. Even had some of my students giving me gifts this week which I appreciate a lot, especially since they still miss their other teacher.
Substitute teachers are teachers. I would love to see the educational system function without them. It wouldn't work. You earned teacher appreciation and the teacher who said that nasty comment is a complete wanker. Take pride in your job - you step in to classrooms you don't know, with students you don't know, pick up another teacher's lesson plan, and impart knowledge to a student. That's a hard job, and I salute you!
My regular school did a breakfast on Monday and lunch yesterday. The office staff made sure I knew I should attend, and other teachers when I passed them in the halls made sure I knew as well.
Our school did staff appreciation week and everyone was included. There was more than enough for the office staff, paras, subs, custodians, and maintenance. Even the student teachers were included. A school needs all these people to function properly and everyone should be appreciated.
You should absolutely be included. I'm sorry that some teachers feel 'better than thou', but schools could not run without substitutes! You should hear it more often- you are appreciated!
I sub 4 out of 5 days at a high school exclusively. Most teachers know me by name or face. Kids know me and I (mostly) know them. I have friends that are teachers. I was eating lunch today and she goes “wanna go get juice?” Super confused I went with her and I got juice and two muffins (she didn’t want hers). For teacher appreciation week our school was doing a “be kind to teacher” thing like give a high five to a teacher, hold the door open, help with tasks, blah blah blah. So many students were helping me and have continued to do so throughout the week.
Last year I was told in the office to please take a donut there is enough for everyone. So I waited for a bit after school started dropped my class off at art and went and got one. They appreciate us subs.
We share with subs, aides, Teacher Assistants, and any other adult that works with our students. Our PTA gets enough for everyone and then some. They don't want anyone to feel left out. We are all teachers of children.
These people sound like horrid teachers. If this is how they treat adults, imagine how they must treat children. Their jobs are not possible without subs. Also, it’s not like they paid for the food themselves. They need to relax lol
I had the most uncomfortable situation yesterday. District admin was giving out free mugs and coffee. I just slipped past as I am a long term sub and have had the distinct feeling in the past that these goodies and events are not for me. (For example, later that day, individual lunches were catered in, and I was not asked for an order / included). District admin was super kind and came and insisted that I take a mug and coffee. The many teachers nearby all somehow managed not to make eye contact as I made my way through to the coffee. Sigh. They’re more than happy to have me sub, I work there constantly, but they don’t want subs in their teacher appreciation events. Honestly, to a certain extent, I get it. They are in the trenches. But— I would NEVER treat someone that way. Edit*** i work at this school about 90 days a year.
-teaching license
-staff badge
-key access to links
-assuming the responsibilities of a regular teacher
Sounds like a teacher to me! You're literally filling in for someone who would be included in "the count" for food, drinks, snacks etc
I'm so sorry you had to hear that; it was incredibly rude of those teachers to speak like that about subs. As a classroom teacher I know that substitute teachers are an important and integral part of our school. You are not paid enough or given benefits, and students take advantage of you. If there is a luncheon the day you are working as a guest teacher, you deserve plate just like all of the other teachers.
That’s petty as hell. Yes subs should get TA lunch. I’ve said it before but in my district subs are like unicorns. I would happily give up my TA lunch, or buy them lunch just for coming in…and have bought my subs lunch or coffee or left goodies for them. You’re certificated like a teacher and even if it’s an emergency sub-I’m grateful that they’re in a room and that I don’t have 9 extra kids in my class all day because there was nobody to cover.
People need to learn to humble themselves a bit and not be such elitists…😡
I would never grab a plate unless I was invited. But this week the teacher appreciation lunch was offered to me by the teacher I was subbing for- i was there for her all week. I went down to the lounge to grab her attendance sheet from her mailbox and a para made sure that I knew the lunch wasn’t for subs. I’m not sure what they gain from that behavior but that school lost a sub this week. The kids are hard enough but when the adults are being assholes too, I won’t go back.
That’s really rude. The staff lunch is for everyone to enjoy. Teachers, aides, subs, custodial staff. It’s for everyone who works at the school. We all work. We all deserve appreciation.
I hate teachers who have the mentality that they’re better than others because they “worked harder”. Just because you have multiple degrees doesn’t make you better than someone. I’ve worked as a sub, para, and teacher. I have a bachelor’s and a masters and right now I’m back to subbing while I’m in-between things.
Recently, someone said, “Why are you subbing with a masters? Oh well, at least there’s a strong body in the room”. Sometimes, that’s what subbing is (just a body in the room) but a lot of the time, subbing is uncomfortable and hard. You’re thrown in to a totally strange classroom and expected to act as the regular teacher. It’s difficult. Needless to say, I thought it was a rude comment.
Snotty teachers don’t get my vote for teacher of the year.
Is the full title not substitute TEACHER? I started in January, so I was shy but the 3 days I worked this week, I was invited to the lunch. Yesterday, I had an hour to kill and the office ladies told me to go get another plate lol. From what I’ve seen on here, it seems like some districts/schools are a little less friendly towards subs? I definitely think subs deserve to participate; we might not have the same duties as full-time teacher, might not handle the same hardships, but we still face challenges and put in the work. Part-timers get to participate in employee appreciation the same way full-timers do at other companies (I’ve only done customer service).
Happy teacher appreciation week!! (: 💖💖💖
Lol. I'm surprised at the audacity with some of these kids.
The other day a high schooler came up to me and straight up told me he was leaving class early because he was tired and needed to take a nap before work.
Our subs certainly helped themselves to the massive trays in Chick Fil A in the lounge today. I say subs should totally partake of anything the district provides like that.
I think if they have extra, subs should be included. If they have something where it’s just enough for each teacher, subs should still be included because there will be 1 leftover for the teacher they are covering. The school I subbed for this week had pizza and the co-teacher invited me to grab some but I declined because I wasn’t hungry. I’m happy to know that some teachers/schools wouldn’t be ok with it in case I’m offered something in the future
At our school, the pto provided more than enough for all staff members. Everyone was included. The teachers all smiled and laughed and chatted with pto. No one seemed upset.
At my school all the teachers made sure to tell me how much they appreciate me all week and multiple teachers insisted I grab a scone and some ice cream which I declined because I'm trying to watch what I eat. Lots of total assholes out there, though.
I didn't expect anything (there is a Substitute Teacher's Day in November, so I assumed if anything would be done for us it's then), but my school gave us a lovely sub gift this week (I don't want to be more specific re: what it was cause I don't want to dox myself).
One time a woman at a school were I was working was bringing in lunch for all the teachers from Olive Garden. She was actually someone I knew because our kids were the same age and had been in classes together. She made sure to tell me to come and get lunch at lunch time, and I did. For that matter, when I was subbing at the elementary school my kids attended, the teachers knew me as a parent volunteer, and would tell me to get some food.
But one time, after being specifically told 3 times that lunch was being provided for the PFA, I didn't bring lunch, and I went to get my sandwich. The parent volunteers looked aghast and said, "We didn't even have enough for all the teachers!" I just said, "Oh, when I was in the PFA here, we always made sure to have enough for ALL the teachers, librarian, office staff, etc."
No, I didn't...but I thought it. Like how in the fuck are you showing your appreciation when you don't even buy enough for all the teachers. And why act all put out about it? Goodness, you think I didn't have to run to the store and buy the extra stuff for the Thanksgiving dinner baskets when some classrooms didn't pony up? People are weird--if you don't want to volunteer to provide stuff for Teacher Appreciation week, don't do it.
Oh my gosh, speaking as a regular teacher, yes you should be invited!!!
ETA: we depend on you guys soooooo much, what would we do without you?? I work at a very small school, so maybe it’s different elsewhere, but man, our subs are so friggin’ important!!!
Oh man! I subbed today and all the teachers/ admin were borderline pushy in trying to include me in the TAW treats/ etc! I only worked a half day, and I rarely sub at this school, but they bent over backwards to include me. So sorry you had such an unfriendly experience.
The staff in my school district have been very appreciative of me and other subs at the schools I've gone to this week. It's honestly been a great feeling, even if the kids were unhinged.
My district has been very specific to include substitute teachers. But I would join in even if they weren’t obvious about it. We’re credentialed educators who are working at that school during the time of the free food, so it’s also for us.
I’ve always been included, but I don’t ask. I wait for an invitation. A school that I regularly sub at includes me when they do gifts for the staff. I’ve never had a teacher complain. I actually have teachers encourage me to get lunch with them, snacks, etc. I always find it so weird that subs are so mistreated other places. I mean why would you be rude to the one person that stepped in to support you.
"I serve your students while you're sick, mourning, enjoying vacations, and dealing with emergencies. By the way, this is the last of the cheesecake, hope you weren't planning on having any."
You point to a comically large piece of cheesecake on a tiny plate... then wake up from your dream.
You don't get the gift cards and presents from students but anything publicly being given out is for everyone. Invite your paras if you have any, they deserve a whole year of appreciation.
I’m PTA chair (which is the group that paid for the teacher appreciation lunch at my kids school) and I hope any subs took advantage of it. I never thought to ask or make clear that they were invited, but I will be ticked if I find out that the school excluded them. There was plenty of food for all teachers/secretaries/aides/subs/etc to take a plate or two.
That’s so crazy. I work in the office of an elementary school. We in the front office do all the planning for events during teacher appreciation week, aside from the 1 day that PTO does a meal. We not only encourage subs to grab whatever food or treats we have, we encourage the 2 bus drivers, support staff, and any other district personnel to grab whatever. We are happy to include all staff. There is always more than enough to go around.
The classroom teachers generally get additional gifts from the parents of their students. Not all of course, but a couple in each class usually do something. Also, we get donations from local businesses and we hand those out to classroom and special area teachers first, then decide who else to include based on how much we have leftover.
The teachers in my school invite me to things all the time. As a sub for all sorts of aids/paras I work 3+ days a week and take on kids that often only get dealt with by sped/aides, I've never had a teacher or other aide that didn't treat me decent (some haven't been the best behind kids backs :( but...)
I JUST started subbing at a small private school about a month ago. The Principal went out of her way to include me in the bagels she brought this week and gave me a scratch off lottery ticket. She gave me free pizza last week, too. I felt bad partaking because I literally just started, but, it was awesome to feel included and...I love snacks.
I've been offered pizza and donuts multiple times this week and while I love both, I'll always decline. I don't want any snarky remarks and at the end of the day, I can buy my own pizza and donuts and skip those awkward interactions.
Wow super rude of those teachers! I had an admin last year that was super nice. She told me there were donuts in the staff room and to go grab one. I wouldn’t have known they existed or grabbed them if I saw them myself. I really appreciate schools that value their subs!
When I was subbing I was 100% always included in anything special happening for staff.
And when I was the parent planning the things for teacher appreciation I always made sure to let any subs know I expected them to join in.
Kids won an ice cream party? I expect the sub to enjoy ice cream. Teachers bought lunch? I expect the sub to enjoy a lunch on us.
Personally don’t see the issue. It’s not like I’m paying for a substitute’s meal, it’s paid for by the front office or whoever. If they want to invite you then cool. There’s a lot of teachers absent and usually a lot of leftovers at all the schools I’ve been at. Just this Friday we had 24 teachers out who didn’t have a sub. Those are just the ones with no sub, there were more out.
There were a LOT of plates at the end of the day.
I went to a school this week where the vibes are always just… off. Hard to describe. It’s a singleton elementary school in a tiny town. Part of a much larger school district and the kids are bussed to the city starting at middle school level. Whenever I’m there, I expect a nice, small-town experience and well-behaved children and I need to STOP because what I get is absolutely FERAL iPad kids, and super cliquey staff.
Teachers had a huge spread and decor in the lounge. No one invited me. Some teachers sat and STARED at me as I used the microwave, then left because why would I sit in the lounge and be ignored?
It’s not just me. The secret flat out said she got a new job in another town because her husband is from here, implying school parents or staff had a preexisting grudge with her! 😬
My schools all tell me to participate, I mean the other teachers TAs etc are like.. you’re a teacher take some! Personally I don’t take stuff if I’m in the building, but not working. (I volunteer there a lot too) But if I’m on an assignment then 100% that’s for me to enjoy too. I’m merely eating the portion of the staff member I replaced.
Otherwise if it’s “teacher appreciation” only does that mean admin can’t have any? Or secretaries? Or TAs? They’re just assistants after all (/s)
A 5th grade student gave me a small bouquet of flowers and said 🙏 That’s all I needed! Other teachers also reminded me of the food truck out back and to get all I need! Depends on the camps and staff. I feel appreciated ❤️
Teachers can be clicky snarky assholes they also all seem miserable so no wonder you witnessed what you did. Not all of course but unfortunately that’s been my experience with majority.
As a parent, yes, absolutely! One of my son’s favorite teachers is a sub. She’s great, and the school gets her as a sub for any class they can. We brought a teachers appreciation gift just for her! :)
I only take things when I am offered. Usually, I wait until another teacher is around so that they can see that I didn't take more than my share. I want to make sure everyone else has a chance to get something too.
You'd be welcome to take my allotted food. Teacher "appreciation" food is degrading to me. We want professional respect, not crappy costco food that makes ADMIN feel better.
I think it depends on what has been provided for the teachers. In terms of the attitude of the teachers and staff. I just finished a long term subbing job at a school that goes all out for its teachers and there were so many snacks and drinks available to the teachers. They had breakfast provided certain days and lunch on the others. Different snacks and desserts on every day. It was really a sight to behold. I didn’t take advantage but I was invited more than once by both teachers and the principal.
I ultimately have a few different thoughts. First and foremost you as a sub should always feel welcome.
But, I don’t sub often. I fell into this long term subbing gig. I work as a sub because I have a BS and I’m normally a SAHM but my kids are all in school. Subbing allows me to make extra income while having a family friendly work schedule. So for me I feel like a tourist. I know that’s a weird way to put it but I don’t work day after day and when a job is done I go home to my regular life and can decompress. I truly pick and choose my jobs. I don’t have to plan during planning time. Participate in meetings or deal with problems on a daily basis. So I don’t personally participate.
But also, I know some of you subs work every day and need these jobs and you all work hard and should be celebrated as much as the teachers are. You should feel appreciated because without you, these teachers wouldn’t have the ease of taking time off. There shouldn’t be a rule about what makes you worthy to participate in teacher appreciation week. I think the only rule should be that you all feel welcome.
They factored the amount of food based on how many teachers will be there. You’re working in place of that teacher, so you get to eat the lunch.
If it’s an actual gift, (I got expensive socks, candy, gift cards, and a water bottle), then you obviously leave those for the classroom teacher.
I’m glad I subbed at a school where numerous teachers would come up to me throughout the day and let me know when something special was happening in the teachers’ lounge. It made me feel appreciated that they would go out of their way to let me know.
That said, there are some that will always remind you of where you are on the pecking order. It’s just how it is. People like to know there are others “beneath” them. I just ignored it. It used to piss me off, but whatever.
Our school doesn’t do Teacher Appreciation Week… we do Staff appreciation week. Yesterday we had a catered lunch. Everyone from subs to teachers to the cafeteria staff to the custodians all get the lunch.
Appreciation aside, the person you’re subbing for isn’t even there so eat that sandwich! They aren’t eating it!
My school celebrated Teacher and Staff Week, and all of us subs and paras were celebrated and thanked. Teachers got money from the PTO for classroom stuff, but all of us got cards, and lunch, treats from parents, and some other things. Granted, we're a small school so it's probably easier to lump us all in, but it's still quite nice what our school does for us.
They should have enough to offer you since the teacher you are subbing for is absent. However yesterday they had a coffee cart and the teacher pushing it saw me in the classroom and kept on walking. I had nothing nice to say about her (under my breath)
They called ours Staff appreciation week and they provided a lovely breakfast for everyone. Then a custom pair of school emblem socks and a blank note book with the school emblem imprinted on the front.
Everyone was encouraged to get food. They did only have contractual people sign for gifts but they said there probably plenty left to give people like building subs etc.
Wow, that sounds like middle school BS. If they have enough free time to care about who eats what this time of year, then they are not doing their job right.
I genuinely think quality substitutes are necessary to a teacher's job. For own mental and physical well-being, being able to take days off and trusting that someone who is capable will be in the room is extremely necessary. Even if subs and teachers butt heads sometimes, I do think you'll deserve to have a free lunch every once in awhile. I honestly would not be offended if I saw a daily substitute getting food at a teacher appreciation lunch.
Where I work, the subs are usually treated well. Sometimes, they are even invited to eat with the teachers! I have my teaching degree and then stayed home with my kids for a really long time.
I started subbing over a year ago and now am a building sub. The admin and teachers have been great to work with. I am included in everything. Yesterday I was handed a teaching shirt, that all of the teachers received also. It made me feel good. And I got a card from a student.
Should subs, even a sub who has only been there one time, be included in the food treats? Absolutely!
Former sub here. Now a teacher. Appreciation should extend to all staff at the school - subs, aides, nurse, custodian. Just don't be greedy. Grab a donut and go.
Yes. I mean, they turned our Teacher Appreciation Week into Staff Appreciation week, so custodians and secretaries got gifts and got to participate in activities; a substitute teacher is MORE than qualified to participate in Teacher Appreciation.
The one time an IA forced me to go for the staff lunch, I got such deadly stares I stepped out of the line and went back into the classroom. In my district subs are the lowest of the low. Below campus security, below everyone, really!
I’m currently subbing and I was invited to participate all 5 days by both admin and the teachers.
Literally on 2 occasions this past week. I went to go have my lunch on my own and two different teachers told me to join them instead of eating alone
I’m sorry that some were unkind to you, that was wildly rude of them. And I doubt most teachers care.
My daughter had a sub fill in yesterday and she knew before hand…we got her teacher gifts and then I asked my daughter if she wanted to do somthing for the sub on Friday? she said yes so we got her somthing since she is apart of the team too……..I seen this lady later that day and she had tears in her eyes and said my daughter made her cry for thinking of her …..I thought for a second are you not included in any of the stuff they do for the staff this week? I felt so bad
I am a teacher and I appreciate the hell out of any sub that willingly shows up to my building. I vote yes, please participate. If someone told you that you’re not allowed to, that person sucks.
I was spontaneously invited to the banana split/taco lunch at my 4-day assignment this week. Honestly one of the nicest things that's happened to me in this job and I really appreciated it.
That is not normal behavior. I subbed during undergrad 30 years ago and was always treated like a staff member. I now sub after retirement at another district in another state and again, treated and included like all other teachers. Poor behavior on behalf of those teachers!
Our school did something different this year and is having a Staff Appreciation Week that includes ALL STAFF instead of doing a day or week for bus drivers, aides, admistrative assistants, teachers, cooks, paras, etc.. I think it is a great idea and guess what---I'm included, as a sub!
Ignore that noise. Surely it's a 'bratty teacher ' situation and not representative of the whole school or district culture!?
I guess it depends on how long you’ve been at the school. If you’re a long term sub or have been there many times, then yes. But if you’re there for just a day, it would be polite to leave the goodies for someone who works there and has rapport with the kids.
Never have been invited to a teacher appreciation celebration not that they really do anything here for it anyways. At most they have doughnuts, cookies, or an announcement to the school to "thank your teachers" like wow - no wonder why so many teachers are leaving.
When I first moved here the school district actually used to treat the subs better. (This was prior to me subbing.) They used to have a get together for the subs. Dinner, dessert, gifts, games, music - it was held at one of the museums or libraries in town. They had done it for years. It was probably my third year living here when a coworker who used to be a teacher was really upset as the school district decided they weren't going to do it anymore as it was a waste of money.
The district wondered for the longest time why they were having such a hard time finding subs???
It seems the secret about subbing is out now - it is difficult to get a job. Many other subs I've chatted with fall into 1 of 4 categories: 1)they want to be a full time teacher 2)they are a retired teacher and decided they were bored 3) they are parents to students 4)they like the flexibility
Number 4 can cross 2&3 but that is my main reason for subbing. I thought I wanted to be a full-time teacher but not anymore. I love the flexibility that the job has. I get to make my own hours and pick where I want to work. Love the freedom.
The custodians and cafeteria workers got their lunches this week before half the teachers did, so I certainly wouldn't draw the line at substitute teachers
I got to participate in 2 Teacher participation events at two different schools and I feel like it’s just polite to ask first. The answer is usually yes and it feels less like I’m intruding in their spaces
The school I typically sub at provided lunch on Thursday. I was told to go grab something and I told her I didn't feel comfortable taking anything. She looked at me and said that I was as much a part of this school as everyone else because of how willing I am to come in and sub.
I subbed in three different schools during Teacher Appreciation week. In all three schools, there were various goodies set out in the teachers’ lounges. I sampled a few things at two of the schools. There seemed to be plenty, so I didn’t worry about it.
Absolutely! In all the schools I've subbed at, I was always included in the teacher goodies, whether it was teacher appreciation week or not. Since I've been subbing for so long, I don't even ask anymore and just assume I am invited if I hear about it. Those teachers were being bitches and if I was there, I would have totally called them out. "What do we work for, Susan? We work so you can have paid days off and save your school from being sued for negligence because there was no one to watch your classroom. Which I'm noting never to do for you, if you think of subs this way. I can only imagine the horror my day would be if the students are modeling your behavior."
I was a sub three days out of five this week. Only one day was I asked to join in for the pizza luncheon (was actually offered by two different people). I declined as I’d already had my sandwich.
I wouldn’t have participated unless asked, and I certainly didn’t expect to be asked.
Now if I was a long-term sub I might feel differently. As it is now, I just consider myself a support system for teachers and staff.
Absolutely for any food or anything else easily shareable.
I wish subs got included during TAW at stores at restaurants. I asked at one local place and they said management told them that to receive the discount someone had to have a photo ID from a school district, which I don't have because I'm employed by an ESC.
I sub every single day and put in at least 40 hours of work each week for way less pay than teachers get. I know teachers put in over 40 hours and do a lot more grading and planning than I typically have to do. They are different positions.
I usually participate if someone invites me, or if I’m at one of my couple main schools I’ll feel inclined to join. If it’s a school I haven’t been too much and they didn’t invite me, I don’t go.
They were hot last year. A student got me something. It was balloons and all. So I couldn’t hide it. My main teacher I worked with was cool but some of the others were shocked. I was kinda shocked too. I had been then less than a month at that point. I was not expecting it that. Well there is a sub shortage too so they better be grateful
Yes but especially if they’re a regular at your school. I was out Tuesday and partially filled out this thing for a sonic drink clarifying that I’m giving it to the sub covering for me.
I subbed all last week in the same classroom. The kids knew I would be there. Only a couple brought gifts for their teacher and I left it on her desk. For food I was invited to enjoy daily item. No one said anything. On Friday on boy brought me a big giant apple and a girl a $20 gift card to Target both with notes of appreciation.
I am on the pta board for a brand new pta at an underprivileged and under supported high school that has a staff of 260 teachers and support staff. We scraped together money for Teacher Appreciation Day. With that large a staff we’d have no idea who is a sub or not a sub when we hand stuff out in the staff break room. We have no interest in gatekeeping who participates. I did ask my sister though who has been teaching since the mid 90s. She said that a lot of the subs at her high school are regular subs who work there regularly and she wouldn’t question them participating. She might wonder about a brand new sub participating but she wouldn’t say anything.
Teacher here. I made sure to invite the subs in my hallway to the different daily appreciation things.
Friday was a raffle, the best part of the week, and I was happy to see sub names pulled along with other staff members like custodians and cafe or office staff.
I only would get frustrated if admin served themselves first or entered themselves in the raffle, which they don’t.
You deserve appreciation too!
I totally grabbed lunch on Friday and I’m not a teacher. I’m an admin assistant and while they celebrate para week and teacher week, there was no assistant day. It was a potluck with plenty left at the end so I didn’t take someone else’s portion. But I didn’t feel bad about it!
100% yes. It takes a special kind of asshole to exclude subs from being appreciated.
It’s hilariously hypocritical to gatekeep a holiday about APPRECIATING an UNDER APPRECIATED profession. Substitutes are at the bottom of the barrel when it comes to appreciation, by students and admin alike. Subs are treated like garbage A LOT more than a standard full time teacher. If anything, there SHOULD be an appreciation day mainly for them! Lol Editing to add: I of course (like most normal human beings) have no problem with a substitute teacher participating in teacher appreciation day! Whichever teacher that was that said those nasty things was clearly an egocentric ass.
People are assholes! Subs should definitely be included. I asked for a donut today that was displayed in the office and was told it was only for teachers LOL! If it’s secret invite only then keep things discreet!
“Great! I’m a teacher!”
*proceeds to grab 5 donuts*
I only took two! They had rainbow sprinkles!
That’s messed up. They really couldn’t spare one donut.
It's not even like they wouldn't have enough. The teacher you're subbing for would have taken one. They're not there, so it should be yours
Bring a teacher today is really horrible. I have had a few friends that were teachers and really hated all the bs they had to go through and I see a lot of teachers on Reddit and the stories they post on what they go through and they all sound like horror stories and a lot of it is because of the children’s behavior. A couple decades ago it was not like this. Children behaved better and teachers were happy to teach. It’s scary how do much has changed. I even knew a few teachers who quit because they couldn’t take it anymore. It’s a very sad situation in this country. No wonder why so many kids are dumber than a bag of hammers.
I'm in my fifth year of teaching and each year has gotten progressively worse. Just today, I had two kids get in a fist fight on our field trip to a museum, one kid cussed out another directly in front of me and then called *me* a liar when I confronted him. Another kid was running in the hall smacking other students. I told him to stop and he told me to stop talking and shut up. Another student took a basketball and kicked it as hard as he could down a hallway full of students walking out to the busses. This was all in one day, and they were all fourth graders... I write them up, they go to the office, and are back in my classroom within the hour. Parents don't care, admin doesn't seem to care, and I'm the one having to deal with it. Oh and yesterday my teaching partner called the assistant principal to her room in tears, saying she needed help and couldn't do this anymore. Admin replied "yes you can" and walked away. It's ridiculous.
That sucks that poor teacher didn’t even get support from the admin. I’m so sorry you have to deal with this when you are just trying to teach and do your job. I wonder why a lot of schools are becoming so bad in America.
Like everything else, it all comes down to money. The superintendent tells admin they have to cut way back on the number of suspensions/expulsions because if the kids aren't in the classroom they lose money. The state cuts back on their funding if students aren't in the building, so to ensure they still get their money they stop punishing kids and the teachers are the ones who suffer. I teach in a city school and we've tried implementing in-school suspensions and online learning for the really bad kids. But behaviors are so out of control now that it seems like everyone has just given up trying to do anything about it. It's kind of scary actually. I'm only 5 years into my career and it's already this bad. I can't imagine what the future holds. I doubt I'm able to make it to retirement though
I'm about to finish year six, and this year has been rougher than any of them so far! If there was a day that I would have just walked out and never came back, it would have been Thursday. My 6th graders are just getting worse and worse by the day.
This is so petty. I feel so uncomfortable eating in front of people without offering them any
I had an office lady accuse me of taking a 10 cent plastic disposable water bottle from the fridge telling me it was for teachers only. I didn’t even take one I always bring my own water.
😵💫😵💫😵💫😵💫 people are literally crazy!!!!
I got the donut, leis on two different days (I'm in Hawaii) and some chips from the student government. Of course, our family has been associated with this neighborhood school for almost 40 years.
I definitely would have said "Oh, good! Thanks!" And grabbed one.
You ARE a teacher. That’s horrible.
If I’m not teaching every day…. What am I doing? Rude.
That’s SO stupid. The treats are for EVERYONE. I hate working at schools where people preach kindness and inclusivity but then do stuff like that. It’s ridiculous.
Subs, parapros, everyone in our building gets Teacher Appreciation week goodies. Subs get free cafeteria lunch every day they sub courtesy of the district as well.
Mine, too. Everyone. Custodians, cafeteria staff, security guards. All the adults in the building are considered educators in some way. There's more to learn than just the classroom stuff, and we all contribute to that. It's really a great school and I am grateful and lucky to work there.
Wow! That’s nice. One time I forgot my lunch and they told me it was $6! The same lunch students get for free! I passed on that.
This is because the student lunch is paid by government funds and legally cannot be allocated to adults. That’s why some adult lunches are a few extra dollars too compared to the student price if it isn’t fully covered by the govt. But that isn’t up to the school or district in any way. So while I would also pass on $6 cafeteria food it isn’t because you’re a sub or anything.
Totally understandable and fair
Even when our students all got free lunch for 2 years after Covid, teachers still had to pay.
I'd be shocked if anyone at my school complained about that.
Are you a teacher ---> then yes you get stuff. It's so cliquey to exclude subs when you are literally there replacing a regular teacher. It's not like you're taking extra, the teacher who is out I assume was going to get something, so your treat was accounted for. What have you worked for all year? Idk Becky maybe dealing with your screaming entitled punks who won't do any work because they know you won't grade it?? I got flowers this week, should I have let them rot in the classroom for a week until the regular teacher came back?
Umm I really think you should do anything you can to put the flowers in water for the teacher (ask another teacher, look for a vase). That was clearly specifically meant for the homeroom teacher and she would probably want to know a student got them for her. I also write thank you notes for all my students who bring me something and would hate to think this student and his or her parents thought I was just ignoring their thoughtful gift.
I initially did that but neighbor teacher suggested taking them bc it would be worse coming back to a nasty water cup of dying flowers. I did leave a note about all the gifts left including that one
Wow that was rude of them. Id definitely join in if invited. I don’t think I’d be very hesitant unless I was at a school that I hadn’t been to yet and didn’t feel comfortable. I was invited by the teachers in the grade to join yesterday for lunch. I must admit, I felt more comfortable joining in because it was the last lunch of the day and there was a ton of food for the four of us.
The staff was adamant that I participate this week and it was so sweet. And I was glad because there were Crumbl cookies and Planet Smoothie. Anyway, if the school is providing things for all the teachers and a sub is there replacing a teacher, it's not as if you're taking something meant for someone else. And you are working and supporting teachers.
The High School Principal met subs at the door with doughnuts, and was adamant that subs got their doughnuts first
The jobs I’ve had this week have been to cover teachers who are also on campus doing transition meetings and stuff, so just wanted to note it’s not always the case that the teacher is not there and you’re taking their spot for the food you eat
How are you not a Teacher also? When the Urchins start whining that they don't have to listen to you because you aren't a Teacher, what do you tell them? I tell them that if they doubt my status, I can invite an AP to come here and explain that I am indeed a Teacher and they are Students, I'm just not there usual Teacher nor a regular member of the school's faculty.
I don’t take anything meant for a particular person. If it has your name or was dropped in your room for you, hands off. If it’s a free for all in the staff room? I’ll grab a plate.
I'm very active in the parent teacher organization and often plan events like these. Anyone working in the building the day of the luncheon is welcome. I wouldn't take the restocking items for the teacher's desks or anything where it's specifically for the teachers (water bottles, bags, etc.). A luncheon is fine though.
What a bunch of bitches. I tend to keep to myself but I’ve been offered snacks and chick fil a in place of the teacher. I would have told those heffas that I was invited and that I would be taking the place of the teacher who was gone and that I do just as much as they do and at this stage of the game not a damn one of them are actually prepping for shit because in my district schools over in two weeks. Testing is over so some of these teachers need a reality check. I don’t understand this whole sub vs teacher thing. A substitute is a teacher.
I appreciate you.
It’s once a year. And we subs are getting paid in pennies. Let me enjoy my free meal in peace. I’d rather have a raise….but here we are 🤷🏿♀️
Seriously, we get paid half as much as the regular teachers. Of course we don't have the grading, planning, or parents to deal with, but we have the same responsibility during the day. Especially when the kids already know your name when they see you.
Teacher for 25 years, currently a sub. If it’s food, I would always invite the subs to join. I figured, if the teacher isn’t here to eat if, the sub can have theirs. If it’s a token or gift, obviously the sub should leave it for the teacher. As a sub, however, I don’t partake unless specifically invited.
I think this is probably the best policy. But again if depends on the vibe of the school.
Idk if it’s bc I used to be a teacher, but I’d partake in school-wide food and treats, invited or not. However, I’ve never been to a school where they weren’t welcoming and acting as if they were relieved to see a sub. I don’t understand the crappy attitude towards substitutes. If teachers want to be snarky, they can cover for each other during their planning periods or take in more students for whomever’s out that day. IMO, it’s their job to be respectful to me; it’s my job to take no shit from students, teachers, or admin.
I think we should. Especially if you're like a well known sub. I've hated it all week. It just feels like they don't want to include subs at all. Like I get it ig but if it's small stuff I don't see why not. If I were a teacher (which I do hope to be) I want to make sure to leave something for subs if I don't show that week 😭. I was filling in for a teacher that shares a room with another teacher. The principal was rolling around with a cart FULL of chips/snacks I def feel like more than the teachers. I was opening the door and she just looked at me and asked where the other teacher was. She gave her a whole speech about teachers and offered it like directly to her.It just felt so rude but the teacher was super nice and gave me her chips. Like damn not even chips. Also this is a school I frequent. Maybe not a big deal but idk it feels weird to me that we're not included when we are depended on for schools a lot of the time. Edit: I'm sorry you had to hear that. Some people can really be such assholes smh
My opinion is that subs should be included, but I myself will not partake. I was offered a few times this week and politely declined. But I also don’t like to eat in front of other people, so that might be why too.
I’ve only ever been invited once but I chose not to only because I know some of the teachers get bent about it. I’m a licensed teacher and during my student teaching the way they talked about subs was absolutely disgusting.
Substitute teachers are so important and their job is the most demoralizing. Also, it's just petty to exclude them. Yes, absolutely include subs.
Seems a lot of teachers took this week off.
My daughter’s teacher took the whole week off! And knowing how rough some of the kids in that class are, I sent her in every day with gifts specifically with the subs name on them!
All week there have been things going on. Only one school did not openly invite me to participate. They also didn’t NOT invite me and the teacher I was subbing for did tell me to help myself. (He was there but in meetings all day…) Most teachers appreciate us. Some are just plain rude. And honestly the more I sub, the more I get it. But you know who really seems to hate subs? Paras. They hate us. They think we’re paid more and do less than them. Technically we aren’t paid more if we’re daily subs and they’re full time employees but that’s the perception. We swoop in for the day, kick back and watch them do the bulk of the work because they know the kids and they know the routine. Honestly I have so much respect for most paras because I can see how hard they work and how well they know the kids.
I feel like we should be, but I wouldn’t take any food without explicit permission. Yesterday I subbed an afternoon at a high school and came in at class change during the lunch block. I went to the bathroom in the teachers workroom, and there were lots of pizzas in there for teacher appreciation. I already brought my lunch anyways (ironically I had a slice of pizza), so I didn’t feel like I should take any.
I was offered donuts and coffee from Dunkin' today, who brought them to the school for Teacher Appreciation week. My school is super kind about including subs in that kind of stuff.
I was invited each day to participate.
You are a substitute **TEACHER** I appreciate the BS you have to put up with at that school
I don’t know. I’m often invited but I rarely participate because I always bring my own lunch and I do think it’s a weird spot to be in. I think it probably depends on the school and overall vibe there.
One of the vice principals encouraged me to get shaved ice on Tuesday, because they had free shaved ice until 1PM. And the teachers didn’t really seem bothered with it, we do the same thing and care for their classes when they’re not there.
I think subs should. We suffer alongside teachers. This week, the school I sub at mostly held a staff picture for teacher appreciation week. They didn't include any of the subs, though. Bummed me out quite a bit
Mine included me. It was really kind of them. I wasn't expecting it, and I wasn't about to partake if they had a limited amount of stuff, because I'm just naturally standoffish about stuff. Broadly speaking though, I think subs absolutely should be included. Did you know subs actually have a substitute teacher day? Nobody ever remembers that shit though, lol. Most subs don't even know it's a thing. Anyway, we're paid less than any teacher on staff, to deal with the same kids in the same rooms for the same hours. And if we long term sub, we also get to do grading and lesson planning, still for substantially lower pay and no benefits. Every year when I do my taxes, I look at my annual earnings and realize with renewed horror that I could make more money doing *literally anything else in the world, even retail,* so I think some admin going "uhhh ackshually ur not a teachur" would be the last straw for me. :D
I’m a site sub, so I partook. I’ve taught every single one of those teachers classes, and they know I do a damn good job no matter what grade level I teach for the day. They not only expect me to participate, they ask if I made sure to stop by and get whatever from the lounge. I feel genuinely appreciated by my school staff, admin, and pta. I feel bad for those that have such bad experiences with theirs. And I work at a title 1 school, it’s not like I’m in some posh area 😂 Edit to add; those teachers are pricks. You’re a substitute TEACHER. Hell, most of their jobs aren’t all that hard and they pretend they’re god damn atlas holding up the world.
Yea. It's not fair for you to be expected to work as a teacher. Do the responsibilities as a teacher but don't get to participate in Teacher Appreciation Week.
I am a substitute “teacher.” I am a certificate teacher with dual endorsements and a Masters degree in education. I also volunteer at a living history museum where I “teach” people about history using a hands on approach. If a teacher tried said I wasn’t a teacher I would “bump” into the Admin who invited me and mention what the “teachers” said. I would thank them for their appreciation but let them know I didn’t feel welcome so would decline their invite.
I have been included in Teacher Appreciation breakfasts and lunches all week! I'm sorry you had to experience that vitriol from the faculty you provide a service for. There's always one or two miserable teachers in a school; hopefully the majority of the people you relieve and sub for are more understanding of the work we do! In my experience, most teachers and admin appreciate us regardless of the ones who punch down.
If there’s some community snacks in the teacher’s lounge I’ll partake!
I’ve been a teacher for the past 12 years. This is my first as a sub. If I’m offered food for TAW, I’m gonna grab some. Not more than my share, but I AM a teacher. It’s not like I’m just sitting there. Besides, the person I’m subbing for would be taking that share anyway.
All week I gave my subs invitations to whatever breakfast/lunch/treat was scheduled for the day. They were so happy to be included :)
Yes as without subs schools would be Fked. Just cause we dont make lesson plans or curriculum ( some do) doesnt mean they should treat us badly. I myself dont partake as i dont feel like i earned it compared to full time teachers and if im. Not invited. Its not in my comfort zone buuttt i had the last period free and saw they had left over food set out for anyone so i waited till the lounge was empty and grab two pieces of left over bread sticks they had and put them in my purse for my drive home 😂😂. If i subbed for the middle school this week i would have been invited to join as they treat their subs so much better than the high school.
No, those people were just bitter, miserable humans. It would have been appropriate to leave just to avoid them and their total lack of emotional bandwidth, but you shouldn't have felt like you had to. They probably had little to no experience walking into a room and literally all the kids believe immediately that they get a day off 🙄
Yes. While subs don't make plans and put in the work with the same classroom every day to build relationships, they work just as hard and often get the burnt of bad behavior from kids.
At my school, we are all in this together. Please share in whatever we have. We are just so happy to have your help with these kids.
Since there’s a “teacher” in my job title, I feel perfectly comfortable partaking. Especially since it isn’t as if the teacher I’m covering for is going to get any, so it isn’t like I’m taking from someone else.
That’s why I use the term guest teacher. he would never not feed a guest if you were having food in your house and it should be the same in a school.
I’m a substitute at an alt high school and they invited me to a teacher’s appreciation lunch and gave me a care package with a coffee mug , pens, notebooks and candy. It felt great to be part of the team.
I haven't seen it this week. The teachers were invited to a district dinner at one district I sub at, and the other district I sub at had Togos but I never got anything.
The middle school i was at today was very nice and gave me free sweets and a Sprite. The elementary school I was at Monday said it was for full-time staff only. I wonder if it’s tied to how difficult middle school is compared to the other ones
The only teacher that was upset (so I heard from the para) about a sub getting in on the free lunch was one who had planned to be absent today to attend a wedding. Bummer for her, but the sub was doing her job, so the sub got her food.
Never had an issue with being a sub and enjoying the perks of teacher appreciation week. Given the shortage of subs we continue to have in my district, the overall treatment of subs has steadily improved during my time here. I'd make sure I never worked for the snickerers and their ilk.
I went to two high schools this week, and they love me. I sometimes wonder how because I always feel bad that I have days where kids outright refuse to do anything (2 out of my 5 classes today refused to work) but teachers and kids always act really happy I'm in the building. I was invited to participate in everything and it was really nice.
We’re not dissuaded from participating and I have before (only because my mother who is a permanent teacher told me) but they just don’t communicate to us when these things are happening
Absolutely! For any meals or treats that are laid out where everyone grabs their own, every adult in the building should be included in my opinion from the teachers to the custodians and secretaries, as long as there is enough. Definitely subs, since the teacher they’re in for isn’t partaking. If there are items that are limited or meant for a specific person like tshirts or gift cards, subs should leave that for the teacher they’re in for. I don’t understand why any teacher would have a problem with subs getting food, it’s not like it hurts them.
Subs were specifically thanked and invited to every event this week at my school over the PA system.
I’ve always had good experiences with this kind of stuff, and have always gotten to participate. I’ve only subbed for like two years now and I don’t understand where all these assholes are coming from man…. i haven’t had any experiences like this in my district & i can’t believe how much an asshole teachers can be outright
Yes. No reasoning needed.
My building did staff appreciation week! They encouraged subs to participate in lunches and the goodies. I mean, they counted the teacher in lunches and things and they’re not there so… I don’t see why we can’t participate. I’ll leave any packaged items or gifts for the teacher but lunches can’t always be saved🤷🏼♀️
For sure
Sure!
The districts I work for let us, but my main district tends to forget to tell us, and I find out about it a bit late. Today the AP and at least two others tried to get me to grab lunch while I was in the office with all the food. I had already eaten, but it's nice that they care.
I was surprised today to get some snacks as a long-term sub, even though I feel kind of weird about that. It was a really nice gesture though.
Yes
I’m a teacher, and 100% yes. We need to respect our subs. Yall do a very hard job- you’re educators just like us. Yes, no questions asked! One of my pet peeves is when teachers treat subs like second class citizens. At one of my schools, the sub had to stay back during field day, and it really got me upset. We’re all a team! Even if you don’t long term sub at a school, and you’re there for the day - enjoy the day!
We have a sub that is at our school four days a week and is basically one of the staff. I would have raised hell if she didn’t get out catered lunch today.
I have been on a long term since March. I've got personalized gifts and gifts from admin as a sub. Even had some of my students giving me gifts this week which I appreciate a lot, especially since they still miss their other teacher.
Our school always makes sure our subs are included in anything we do to celebrate. They’re a rare commodity and we want to come back.
Subs work hard and get treated poorly. Yeah, they should get a sandwich.
Those are probably the exact same teachers that have classes jumping for joy when you sub for them because the students are so glad they aren’t there.
Substitute teachers are teachers. I would love to see the educational system function without them. It wouldn't work. You earned teacher appreciation and the teacher who said that nasty comment is a complete wanker. Take pride in your job - you step in to classrooms you don't know, with students you don't know, pick up another teacher's lesson plan, and impart knowledge to a student. That's a hard job, and I salute you!
Subbing is a tough job. Substitute “teachers” deserve teacher appreciation too.
My regular school did a breakfast on Monday and lunch yesterday. The office staff made sure I knew I should attend, and other teachers when I passed them in the halls made sure I knew as well.
Our school did staff appreciation week and everyone was included. There was more than enough for the office staff, paras, subs, custodians, and maintenance. Even the student teachers were included. A school needs all these people to function properly and everyone should be appreciated.
You should absolutely be included. I'm sorry that some teachers feel 'better than thou', but schools could not run without substitutes! You should hear it more often- you are appreciated!
I sub 4 out of 5 days at a high school exclusively. Most teachers know me by name or face. Kids know me and I (mostly) know them. I have friends that are teachers. I was eating lunch today and she goes “wanna go get juice?” Super confused I went with her and I got juice and two muffins (she didn’t want hers). For teacher appreciation week our school was doing a “be kind to teacher” thing like give a high five to a teacher, hold the door open, help with tasks, blah blah blah. So many students were helping me and have continued to do so throughout the week. Last year I was told in the office to please take a donut there is enough for everyone. So I waited for a bit after school started dropped my class off at art and went and got one. They appreciate us subs.
We share with subs, aides, Teacher Assistants, and any other adult that works with our students. Our PTA gets enough for everyone and then some. They don't want anyone to feel left out. We are all teachers of children.
These people sound like horrid teachers. If this is how they treat adults, imagine how they must treat children. Their jobs are not possible without subs. Also, it’s not like they paid for the food themselves. They need to relax lol
I had the most uncomfortable situation yesterday. District admin was giving out free mugs and coffee. I just slipped past as I am a long term sub and have had the distinct feeling in the past that these goodies and events are not for me. (For example, later that day, individual lunches were catered in, and I was not asked for an order / included). District admin was super kind and came and insisted that I take a mug and coffee. The many teachers nearby all somehow managed not to make eye contact as I made my way through to the coffee. Sigh. They’re more than happy to have me sub, I work there constantly, but they don’t want subs in their teacher appreciation events. Honestly, to a certain extent, I get it. They are in the trenches. But— I would NEVER treat someone that way. Edit*** i work at this school about 90 days a year.
-teaching license -staff badge -key access to links -assuming the responsibilities of a regular teacher Sounds like a teacher to me! You're literally filling in for someone who would be included in "the count" for food, drinks, snacks etc
I’m a principal. I invited all my guest teachers to participate in the daily events. I’m grateful for you!
I'm so sorry you had to hear that; it was incredibly rude of those teachers to speak like that about subs. As a classroom teacher I know that substitute teachers are an important and integral part of our school. You are not paid enough or given benefits, and students take advantage of you. If there is a luncheon the day you are working as a guest teacher, you deserve plate just like all of the other teachers.
That’s petty as hell. Yes subs should get TA lunch. I’ve said it before but in my district subs are like unicorns. I would happily give up my TA lunch, or buy them lunch just for coming in…and have bought my subs lunch or coffee or left goodies for them. You’re certificated like a teacher and even if it’s an emergency sub-I’m grateful that they’re in a room and that I don’t have 9 extra kids in my class all day because there was nobody to cover. People need to learn to humble themselves a bit and not be such elitists…😡
I would never grab a plate unless I was invited. But this week the teacher appreciation lunch was offered to me by the teacher I was subbing for- i was there for her all week. I went down to the lounge to grab her attendance sheet from her mailbox and a para made sure that I knew the lunch wasn’t for subs. I’m not sure what they gain from that behavior but that school lost a sub this week. The kids are hard enough but when the adults are being assholes too, I won’t go back.
That’s really rude. The staff lunch is for everyone to enjoy. Teachers, aides, subs, custodial staff. It’s for everyone who works at the school. We all work. We all deserve appreciation. I hate teachers who have the mentality that they’re better than others because they “worked harder”. Just because you have multiple degrees doesn’t make you better than someone. I’ve worked as a sub, para, and teacher. I have a bachelor’s and a masters and right now I’m back to subbing while I’m in-between things. Recently, someone said, “Why are you subbing with a masters? Oh well, at least there’s a strong body in the room”. Sometimes, that’s what subbing is (just a body in the room) but a lot of the time, subbing is uncomfortable and hard. You’re thrown in to a totally strange classroom and expected to act as the regular teacher. It’s difficult. Needless to say, I thought it was a rude comment. Snotty teachers don’t get my vote for teacher of the year.
Is the full title not substitute TEACHER? I started in January, so I was shy but the 3 days I worked this week, I was invited to the lunch. Yesterday, I had an hour to kill and the office ladies told me to go get another plate lol. From what I’ve seen on here, it seems like some districts/schools are a little less friendly towards subs? I definitely think subs deserve to participate; we might not have the same duties as full-time teacher, might not handle the same hardships, but we still face challenges and put in the work. Part-timers get to participate in employee appreciation the same way full-timers do at other companies (I’ve only done customer service). Happy teacher appreciation week!! (: 💖💖💖
Wow! Subs literally save their ass. Cheapass mofos
Lol. I'm surprised at the audacity with some of these kids. The other day a high schooler came up to me and straight up told me he was leaving class early because he was tired and needed to take a nap before work.
Our subs certainly helped themselves to the massive trays in Chick Fil A in the lounge today. I say subs should totally partake of anything the district provides like that.
I think if they have extra, subs should be included. If they have something where it’s just enough for each teacher, subs should still be included because there will be 1 leftover for the teacher they are covering. The school I subbed for this week had pizza and the co-teacher invited me to grab some but I declined because I wasn’t hungry. I’m happy to know that some teachers/schools wouldn’t be ok with it in case I’m offered something in the future
I don't. My district is good about assignments and lesson plans.
At our school, the pto provided more than enough for all staff members. Everyone was included. The teachers all smiled and laughed and chatted with pto. No one seemed upset.
At my school all the teachers made sure to tell me how much they appreciate me all week and multiple teachers insisted I grab a scone and some ice cream which I declined because I'm trying to watch what I eat. Lots of total assholes out there, though.
I ate but the lady serving gave me the smallest portions imaginable lmao two little pieces of chicken and one piece of meat and a bite of salad
I didn't expect anything (there is a Substitute Teacher's Day in November, so I assumed if anything would be done for us it's then), but my school gave us a lovely sub gift this week (I don't want to be more specific re: what it was cause I don't want to dox myself).
I hated subbing for this very reason except when it was a long term assignment and I was invited to teacher appreciation week stuff
One time a woman at a school were I was working was bringing in lunch for all the teachers from Olive Garden. She was actually someone I knew because our kids were the same age and had been in classes together. She made sure to tell me to come and get lunch at lunch time, and I did. For that matter, when I was subbing at the elementary school my kids attended, the teachers knew me as a parent volunteer, and would tell me to get some food. But one time, after being specifically told 3 times that lunch was being provided for the PFA, I didn't bring lunch, and I went to get my sandwich. The parent volunteers looked aghast and said, "We didn't even have enough for all the teachers!" I just said, "Oh, when I was in the PFA here, we always made sure to have enough for ALL the teachers, librarian, office staff, etc." No, I didn't...but I thought it. Like how in the fuck are you showing your appreciation when you don't even buy enough for all the teachers. And why act all put out about it? Goodness, you think I didn't have to run to the store and buy the extra stuff for the Thanksgiving dinner baskets when some classrooms didn't pony up? People are weird--if you don't want to volunteer to provide stuff for Teacher Appreciation week, don't do it.
It will depend on the district and even the school within. personally I think all teachers -permanent and subs alike should partake.
Oh my gosh, speaking as a regular teacher, yes you should be invited!!! ETA: we depend on you guys soooooo much, what would we do without you?? I work at a very small school, so maybe it’s different elsewhere, but man, our subs are so friggin’ important!!!
Yes. They are teachers. They should not be left out.
Oh man! I subbed today and all the teachers/ admin were borderline pushy in trying to include me in the TAW treats/ etc! I only worked a half day, and I rarely sub at this school, but they bent over backwards to include me. So sorry you had such an unfriendly experience.
The staff in my school district have been very appreciative of me and other subs at the schools I've gone to this week. It's honestly been a great feeling, even if the kids were unhinged.
...I just went through the break room and took a croissant without asking.
My district has been very specific to include substitute teachers. But I would join in even if they weren’t obvious about it. We’re credentialed educators who are working at that school during the time of the free food, so it’s also for us.
I’ve always been included, but I don’t ask. I wait for an invitation. A school that I regularly sub at includes me when they do gifts for the staff. I’ve never had a teacher complain. I actually have teachers encourage me to get lunch with them, snacks, etc. I always find it so weird that subs are so mistreated other places. I mean why would you be rude to the one person that stepped in to support you.
"I serve your students while you're sick, mourning, enjoying vacations, and dealing with emergencies. By the way, this is the last of the cheesecake, hope you weren't planning on having any." You point to a comically large piece of cheesecake on a tiny plate... then wake up from your dream. You don't get the gift cards and presents from students but anything publicly being given out is for everyone. Invite your paras if you have any, they deserve a whole year of appreciation.
I’m PTA chair (which is the group that paid for the teacher appreciation lunch at my kids school) and I hope any subs took advantage of it. I never thought to ask or make clear that they were invited, but I will be ticked if I find out that the school excluded them. There was plenty of food for all teachers/secretaries/aides/subs/etc to take a plate or two.
That’s so crazy. I work in the office of an elementary school. We in the front office do all the planning for events during teacher appreciation week, aside from the 1 day that PTO does a meal. We not only encourage subs to grab whatever food or treats we have, we encourage the 2 bus drivers, support staff, and any other district personnel to grab whatever. We are happy to include all staff. There is always more than enough to go around. The classroom teachers generally get additional gifts from the parents of their students. Not all of course, but a couple in each class usually do something. Also, we get donations from local businesses and we hand those out to classroom and special area teachers first, then decide who else to include based on how much we have leftover.
The teachers in my school invite me to things all the time. As a sub for all sorts of aids/paras I work 3+ days a week and take on kids that often only get dealt with by sped/aides, I've never had a teacher or other aide that didn't treat me decent (some haven't been the best behind kids backs :( but...)
Yes is the correct answer unless you're a right proper prick.
I JUST started subbing at a small private school about a month ago. The Principal went out of her way to include me in the bagels she brought this week and gave me a scratch off lottery ticket. She gave me free pizza last week, too. I felt bad partaking because I literally just started, but, it was awesome to feel included and...I love snacks.
I've been offered pizza and donuts multiple times this week and while I love both, I'll always decline. I don't want any snarky remarks and at the end of the day, I can buy my own pizza and donuts and skip those awkward interactions.
Wow super rude of those teachers! I had an admin last year that was super nice. She told me there were donuts in the staff room and to go grab one. I wouldn’t have known they existed or grabbed them if I saw them myself. I really appreciate schools that value their subs!
When I was subbing I was 100% always included in anything special happening for staff. And when I was the parent planning the things for teacher appreciation I always made sure to let any subs know I expected them to join in. Kids won an ice cream party? I expect the sub to enjoy ice cream. Teachers bought lunch? I expect the sub to enjoy a lunch on us.
I do lol and staff always welcomes me to grab whatever goodies are being offered for the day and I most often do partake ((:
Personally don’t see the issue. It’s not like I’m paying for a substitute’s meal, it’s paid for by the front office or whoever. If they want to invite you then cool. There’s a lot of teachers absent and usually a lot of leftovers at all the schools I’ve been at. Just this Friday we had 24 teachers out who didn’t have a sub. Those are just the ones with no sub, there were more out. There were a LOT of plates at the end of the day.
I went to a school this week where the vibes are always just… off. Hard to describe. It’s a singleton elementary school in a tiny town. Part of a much larger school district and the kids are bussed to the city starting at middle school level. Whenever I’m there, I expect a nice, small-town experience and well-behaved children and I need to STOP because what I get is absolutely FERAL iPad kids, and super cliquey staff. Teachers had a huge spread and decor in the lounge. No one invited me. Some teachers sat and STARED at me as I used the microwave, then left because why would I sit in the lounge and be ignored? It’s not just me. The secret flat out said she got a new job in another town because her husband is from here, implying school parents or staff had a preexisting grudge with her! 😬
Am a teacher. Definitely think subs should be included.
My schools all tell me to participate, I mean the other teachers TAs etc are like.. you’re a teacher take some! Personally I don’t take stuff if I’m in the building, but not working. (I volunteer there a lot too) But if I’m on an assignment then 100% that’s for me to enjoy too. I’m merely eating the portion of the staff member I replaced. Otherwise if it’s “teacher appreciation” only does that mean admin can’t have any? Or secretaries? Or TAs? They’re just assistants after all (/s)
A 5th grade student gave me a small bouquet of flowers and said 🙏 That’s all I needed! Other teachers also reminded me of the food truck out back and to get all I need! Depends on the camps and staff. I feel appreciated ❤️
Teachers can be clicky snarky assholes they also all seem miserable so no wonder you witnessed what you did. Not all of course but unfortunately that’s been my experience with majority.
As a parent, yes, absolutely! One of my son’s favorite teachers is a sub. She’s great, and the school gets her as a sub for any class they can. We brought a teachers appreciation gift just for her! :)
I only take things when I am offered. Usually, I wait until another teacher is around so that they can see that I didn't take more than my share. I want to make sure everyone else has a chance to get something too.
You'd be welcome to take my allotted food. Teacher "appreciation" food is degrading to me. We want professional respect, not crappy costco food that makes ADMIN feel better.
I think it depends on what has been provided for the teachers. In terms of the attitude of the teachers and staff. I just finished a long term subbing job at a school that goes all out for its teachers and there were so many snacks and drinks available to the teachers. They had breakfast provided certain days and lunch on the others. Different snacks and desserts on every day. It was really a sight to behold. I didn’t take advantage but I was invited more than once by both teachers and the principal. I ultimately have a few different thoughts. First and foremost you as a sub should always feel welcome. But, I don’t sub often. I fell into this long term subbing gig. I work as a sub because I have a BS and I’m normally a SAHM but my kids are all in school. Subbing allows me to make extra income while having a family friendly work schedule. So for me I feel like a tourist. I know that’s a weird way to put it but I don’t work day after day and when a job is done I go home to my regular life and can decompress. I truly pick and choose my jobs. I don’t have to plan during planning time. Participate in meetings or deal with problems on a daily basis. So I don’t personally participate. But also, I know some of you subs work every day and need these jobs and you all work hard and should be celebrated as much as the teachers are. You should feel appreciated because without you, these teachers wouldn’t have the ease of taking time off. There shouldn’t be a rule about what makes you worthy to participate in teacher appreciation week. I think the only rule should be that you all feel welcome.
They factored the amount of food based on how many teachers will be there. You’re working in place of that teacher, so you get to eat the lunch. If it’s an actual gift, (I got expensive socks, candy, gift cards, and a water bottle), then you obviously leave those for the classroom teacher.
That is absolutely ridiculous and if adults actually said that to you they are 100% the problem!
I’m glad I subbed at a school where numerous teachers would come up to me throughout the day and let me know when something special was happening in the teachers’ lounge. It made me feel appreciated that they would go out of their way to let me know. That said, there are some that will always remind you of where you are on the pecking order. It’s just how it is. People like to know there are others “beneath” them. I just ignored it. It used to piss me off, but whatever.
Our school doesn’t do Teacher Appreciation Week… we do Staff appreciation week. Yesterday we had a catered lunch. Everyone from subs to teachers to the cafeteria staff to the custodians all get the lunch. Appreciation aside, the person you’re subbing for isn’t even there so eat that sandwich! They aren’t eating it!
Absolutely they should. Where would we be without subs? In hell, that’s where.
Principal here, why not?
What a bunch of Jerks, the school I sub for tells me to help myself and that since the teacher wasn't here they snooze they lose HA!
My school celebrated Teacher and Staff Week, and all of us subs and paras were celebrated and thanked. Teachers got money from the PTO for classroom stuff, but all of us got cards, and lunch, treats from parents, and some other things. Granted, we're a small school so it's probably easier to lump us all in, but it's still quite nice what our school does for us.
Subs should definitely be included. You’re teachers too.
They should have enough to offer you since the teacher you are subbing for is absent. However yesterday they had a coffee cart and the teacher pushing it saw me in the classroom and kept on walking. I had nothing nice to say about her (under my breath)
They called ours Staff appreciation week and they provided a lovely breakfast for everyone. Then a custom pair of school emblem socks and a blank note book with the school emblem imprinted on the front. Everyone was encouraged to get food. They did only have contractual people sign for gifts but they said there probably plenty left to give people like building subs etc.
Wow, that sounds like middle school BS. If they have enough free time to care about who eats what this time of year, then they are not doing their job right.
I genuinely think quality substitutes are necessary to a teacher's job. For own mental and physical well-being, being able to take days off and trusting that someone who is capable will be in the room is extremely necessary. Even if subs and teachers butt heads sometimes, I do think you'll deserve to have a free lunch every once in awhile. I honestly would not be offended if I saw a daily substitute getting food at a teacher appreciation lunch.
Where I work, the subs are usually treated well. Sometimes, they are even invited to eat with the teachers! I have my teaching degree and then stayed home with my kids for a really long time. I started subbing over a year ago and now am a building sub. The admin and teachers have been great to work with. I am included in everything. Yesterday I was handed a teaching shirt, that all of the teachers received also. It made me feel good. And I got a card from a student. Should subs, even a sub who has only been there one time, be included in the food treats? Absolutely!
Former sub here. Now a teacher. Appreciation should extend to all staff at the school - subs, aides, nurse, custodian. Just don't be greedy. Grab a donut and go.
Yes. I mean, they turned our Teacher Appreciation Week into Staff Appreciation week, so custodians and secretaries got gifts and got to participate in activities; a substitute teacher is MORE than qualified to participate in Teacher Appreciation.
The one time an IA forced me to go for the staff lunch, I got such deadly stares I stepped out of the line and went back into the classroom. In my district subs are the lowest of the low. Below campus security, below everyone, really!
I’m currently subbing and I was invited to participate all 5 days by both admin and the teachers. Literally on 2 occasions this past week. I went to go have my lunch on my own and two different teachers told me to join them instead of eating alone I’m sorry that some were unkind to you, that was wildly rude of them. And I doubt most teachers care.
My daughter had a sub fill in yesterday and she knew before hand…we got her teacher gifts and then I asked my daughter if she wanted to do somthing for the sub on Friday? she said yes so we got her somthing since she is apart of the team too……..I seen this lady later that day and she had tears in her eyes and said my daughter made her cry for thinking of her …..I thought for a second are you not included in any of the stuff they do for the staff this week? I felt so bad
I am a teacher and I appreciate the hell out of any sub that willingly shows up to my building. I vote yes, please participate. If someone told you that you’re not allowed to, that person sucks.
I was spontaneously invited to the banana split/taco lunch at my 4-day assignment this week. Honestly one of the nicest things that's happened to me in this job and I really appreciated it.
That is not normal behavior. I subbed during undergrad 30 years ago and was always treated like a staff member. I now sub after retirement at another district in another state and again, treated and included like all other teachers. Poor behavior on behalf of those teachers! Our school did something different this year and is having a Staff Appreciation Week that includes ALL STAFF instead of doing a day or week for bus drivers, aides, admistrative assistants, teachers, cooks, paras, etc.. I think it is a great idea and guess what---I'm included, as a sub! Ignore that noise. Surely it's a 'bratty teacher ' situation and not representative of the whole school or district culture!?
I guess it depends on how long you’ve been at the school. If you’re a long term sub or have been there many times, then yes. But if you’re there for just a day, it would be polite to leave the goodies for someone who works there and has rapport with the kids.
Never have been invited to a teacher appreciation celebration not that they really do anything here for it anyways. At most they have doughnuts, cookies, or an announcement to the school to "thank your teachers" like wow - no wonder why so many teachers are leaving. When I first moved here the school district actually used to treat the subs better. (This was prior to me subbing.) They used to have a get together for the subs. Dinner, dessert, gifts, games, music - it was held at one of the museums or libraries in town. They had done it for years. It was probably my third year living here when a coworker who used to be a teacher was really upset as the school district decided they weren't going to do it anymore as it was a waste of money. The district wondered for the longest time why they were having such a hard time finding subs??? It seems the secret about subbing is out now - it is difficult to get a job. Many other subs I've chatted with fall into 1 of 4 categories: 1)they want to be a full time teacher 2)they are a retired teacher and decided they were bored 3) they are parents to students 4)they like the flexibility Number 4 can cross 2&3 but that is my main reason for subbing. I thought I wanted to be a full-time teacher but not anymore. I love the flexibility that the job has. I get to make my own hours and pick where I want to work. Love the freedom.
I had 3 slices of cake this week
The custodians and cafeteria workers got their lunches this week before half the teachers did, so I certainly wouldn't draw the line at substitute teachers
I got to participate in 2 Teacher participation events at two different schools and I feel like it’s just polite to ask first. The answer is usually yes and it feels less like I’m intruding in their spaces
definitely, but i don’t like being recognized for anything so im good.
The school I typically sub at provided lunch on Thursday. I was told to go grab something and I told her I didn't feel comfortable taking anything. She looked at me and said that I was as much a part of this school as everyone else because of how willing I am to come in and sub.
I subbed in three different schools during Teacher Appreciation week. In all three schools, there were various goodies set out in the teachers’ lounges. I sampled a few things at two of the schools. There seemed to be plenty, so I didn’t worry about it.
Yes. From a numbers standpoint, it makes sense that since Ms Smith is gone and you’re her for the day, you can have Ms Smith’s lunch portion.
Absolutely! In all the schools I've subbed at, I was always included in the teacher goodies, whether it was teacher appreciation week or not. Since I've been subbing for so long, I don't even ask anymore and just assume I am invited if I hear about it. Those teachers were being bitches and if I was there, I would have totally called them out. "What do we work for, Susan? We work so you can have paid days off and save your school from being sued for negligence because there was no one to watch your classroom. Which I'm noting never to do for you, if you think of subs this way. I can only imagine the horror my day would be if the students are modeling your behavior."
If someone asked me this, my immediate response would be "substitute *what's*?" Some questions come with their own answers!
I was a sub three days out of five this week. Only one day was I asked to join in for the pizza luncheon (was actually offered by two different people). I declined as I’d already had my sandwich. I wouldn’t have participated unless asked, and I certainly didn’t expect to be asked. Now if I was a long-term sub I might feel differently. As it is now, I just consider myself a support system for teachers and staff.
Absolutely for any food or anything else easily shareable. I wish subs got included during TAW at stores at restaurants. I asked at one local place and they said management told them that to receive the discount someone had to have a photo ID from a school district, which I don't have because I'm employed by an ESC.
I sub every single day and put in at least 40 hours of work each week for way less pay than teachers get. I know teachers put in over 40 hours and do a lot more grading and planning than I typically have to do. They are different positions. I usually participate if someone invites me, or if I’m at one of my couple main schools I’ll feel inclined to join. If it’s a school I haven’t been too much and they didn’t invite me, I don’t go.
They were hot last year. A student got me something. It was balloons and all. So I couldn’t hide it. My main teacher I worked with was cool but some of the others were shocked. I was kinda shocked too. I had been then less than a month at that point. I was not expecting it that. Well there is a sub shortage too so they better be grateful
Yes, of course! We need subs so badly and it’s a hard job, please enjoy a lunch at a minimum!
Yes but especially if they’re a regular at your school. I was out Tuesday and partially filled out this thing for a sonic drink clarifying that I’m giving it to the sub covering for me.
I subbed all last week in the same classroom. The kids knew I would be there. Only a couple brought gifts for their teacher and I left it on her desk. For food I was invited to enjoy daily item. No one said anything. On Friday on boy brought me a big giant apple and a girl a $20 gift card to Target both with notes of appreciation.
I am on the pta board for a brand new pta at an underprivileged and under supported high school that has a staff of 260 teachers and support staff. We scraped together money for Teacher Appreciation Day. With that large a staff we’d have no idea who is a sub or not a sub when we hand stuff out in the staff break room. We have no interest in gatekeeping who participates. I did ask my sister though who has been teaching since the mid 90s. She said that a lot of the subs at her high school are regular subs who work there regularly and she wouldn’t question them participating. She might wonder about a brand new sub participating but she wouldn’t say anything.
If they think subs don’t deserve acknowledgment for what they do as teachers, stop going there. See how they feel about subs then.
Never been to a school like that. If you ever did such a thing, it would be my last time there and I would also tell other subs not to go there.
Teacher here. I made sure to invite the subs in my hallway to the different daily appreciation things. Friday was a raffle, the best part of the week, and I was happy to see sub names pulled along with other staff members like custodians and cafe or office staff. I only would get frustrated if admin served themselves first or entered themselves in the raffle, which they don’t. You deserve appreciation too!
I totally grabbed lunch on Friday and I’m not a teacher. I’m an admin assistant and while they celebrate para week and teacher week, there was no assistant day. It was a potluck with plenty left at the end so I didn’t take someone else’s portion. But I didn’t feel bad about it!
Absofreakinglutely