When you walk into class and see someone new at the teacher’s desk wearing that bright yellow lanyard, it usually means that it’s going to be a good day. A substitute teacher often means less work, fewer assignments, and a welcome break from the routine.
In the beginning, having a sub feels like a blessing. But when it starts happening every other week, students quickly realize the downsides, especially when their grades begin to drop.
Recently, many freshmen have noticed that their teachers are missing more school days than the students themselves. At first, this seemed like a dream come true. But over time, the constant rotation of substitutes has started to impact learning in serious ways.
“I don’t know what’s going on because teachers aren’t there, and a sub can’t teach,” freshman Ariana Griseto said. “ I’m falling behind and not learning what I should be.”
Teachers play a crucial role in students’ success. Beyond delivering content, they meet individual learning needs. Every student learns differently, some visually, others through listening, hands-on activities, reading, discussion, or other personal supports. When teachers are absent, those learning needs often go unmet.
“When my teachers aren’t there and all we get is a worksheet with a passage, I usually start to struggle with that topic,” freshman Rainie Lim said. “I don’t understand it because I’m not being taught the way I learn best, which is with the help of a teacher.”
Understandably, teachers occasionally need days off, but students have started noticing a trend that goes beyond the occasional absence. And while a day with a substitute can feel like a break, over time, it’s clear: without consistent instruction, students are the ones paying the price.
“When this begins to happen, the best I can do is try my best and ask for help when my teacher comes back, or even ask another teacher,” Lim said.
