Recommendations for training of substitute teachers in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District

Abstract

With increasing importance placed on student growth and achievement scores, increasing teacher absenteeism, and increasing amounts of time students spend being taught by substitute teachers, it is surprising that the preparation of substitute teachers does not reflect the significance of the job they have in relation to these trends. Research shows that training can increase substitute teacher effectiveness, which may positively affect student growth and achievement. The purpose of this project was to determine what the substitute teacher onboarding process was, including employment requirements and required training, for substitute teachers in the Matanuska-Susitna Borough School District and to make recommendations to the district for the training of substitute teachers. Substitute teachers in the district were asked to complete a survey regarding their experience, current level of training, and perceived training needs. I found that regardless of the amount of experience and training substitute teachers already possess, they want more training not only in the programs and initiatives utilized by the district, but also in effective instructional strategies, best practices, and teaching methods in curricular areas. While the district onboarding process is fairly comprehensive, as is the available optional training, I developed recommendations to improve the onboarding process and training options for substitute teachers in the district to strengthen substitute teacher effectiveness.