Once I have familiarized myself with the lessons, what else should I do?

It is to your advantage to learn as much as possible about the school, the schedule, and the students. The 
degree to which you are able to do this depends on the information the classroom teacher has left. Following 
are some suggestions that may help you prepare for your assignment prior to the students’ arrival.

O Perform any tasks necessary to execute the lessons (e.g., photocopying, cutting, reading 

information in a textbook).

O Find the seating plan; if there isn’t one, be prepared to make one.
O Familiarize yourself with school safety routines (e.g., fire drills), school timetable, yard duty 

supervision schedule, and school discipline policy.

O Find a class list and prepare name tags.
O Review any behaviour plans and student safety plans that exist to ensure you will maintain 

consistency for those students involved.

O Identify the names of students with high needs, allergies, and those requiring medications.
O It is a good idea to identify those students as soon as they enter the classroom.
O Review the in-school support program timetable (e.g., special education, ELL).
O Find out if you need to collect anything from the students (e.g. money, homework).
O Find out if there are any special events happening in the school (e.g., pizza day, special visitor).

How do I maintain classroom continuity?

Review the established classroom rules, routines, and expectations. Encourage students to take 
ownership of their classroom by having them explain the rules and expectations to you.

Try to follow the rules and routines as closely as possible in order to maintain consistency for the students.

If you believe a temporary rule should be instituted, provide the students with an explanation for its 
need. Students are more likely to adhere to a new rule when they understand why it is necessary. Rules 
should be short, concise, and stated in a positive manner. It is helpful to write the rule on the blackboard 
or to post it as a reminder. You may need to review rules and expectations several times during the day, 
especially after high-energy activities such as recess or physical education class.

What should I do if I cannot find information about 

lessons and established rules and routines?

If the minimal amount of information is not available from reviewing the daybook, you can ask the school 
secretary and other staff; once the students arrive, you can ask them too. Students are particularly helpful 
in answering your questions about classroom procedures around attendance, washroom use, collecting 
money, etc. Helpful students are a valuable resource and will identify themselves quickly to you. Be sure 
to use them.

What do I need to do at the end of the day?

At the end of the day, follow this useful checklist:

O ensure that students have completed their usual end-of-day activities (e.g., fill out planner, 

homework review);

O distribute newsletters or notes that need to go home with the students;
O ask students to assist with tidying the room; and
O tell the students how much you enjoyed working with them.

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