Substitute Teaching: Effective Strategies for Classroom Management and Student Engagement

Designed to help substitute teachers effectively manage classrooms, facilitate instruction, build positive relationships, and confidently navigate the unique challenges of stepping into any learning environment.
Built for Substitute Teachers
Substitute teach with confidence
3 Hours
Self-paced, relevant training
6 Courses
Essential skills for substitute teachers
Certificate Included
Document your training
Learn Anywhere
Access courses on any device

Every Substitute Teacher Makes a Difference

Substitute teachers play a critical role in maintaining continuity of learning when classroom teachers are absent. Yet stepping into an unfamiliar classroom, building rapport with students, managing behavior, and carrying out instructional plans can feel overwhelming without the right preparation and support. Effective substitute teachers need more than a lesson plan. They need practical strategies, flexible tools, and confidence in their ability to lead learning in any setting.

Courses in this Pathway

Substitute Teaching: Effective Strategies for Classroom Management and Student Engagement

Meet

Shelly Sanchez Terrell

Shelly Sanchez Terrell is an award-winning digital innovator, author, and STEM teacher who has trained educators in over 20 countries. Her accolades include Woman of the Year by NAPW, a Bammy Award, and recognition as the founder of #Edchat and a leader in teacher-driven professional development.
Specializes In:
Digital Innovator and STEM Educator

Meet

Reba Gordon Matthews

Reba Gordon Matthews is an educational consultant and coach with 26 years of experience. She trains educators and advocates for at-risk youth through a foundation she co-founded, focused on overcoming obstacles and creating growth opportunities.
Specializes In:
Educational Consultant and Coach

Meet

Michelle Dragalin

Michelle has taught for 35+ years, from Head Start to special ed and online ESL. She creates curriculum and loves helping students through hands-on, digital activities. Passionate about teaching, family, and self-care, she lives in the mountains with her husband and dogs.
Specializes In:
Teacherpreneur

Meet

Specializes In:

What Educators Are Saying

“Since adopting SimpleK12, we’ve seen an increase in professional development participation. Teachers are more engaged because the content is practical, flexible, and relevant.”

Angela P., Principal

“Our new teachers need structured support that builds confidence and translates into immediate classroom impact. This pathway covers the essentials — planning, assessment, classroom management, and collaboration — in a way that helps early-career educators start strong and stay strong.”

Michael R., Principal

"These courses are bringing a whole new world to the secondary classroom. Exciting time to be an educator!" - Janie M.

Janie M., Teacher
Three people wearing safety glasses work together on assembling or programming a robotic arm with blue tubing on a table.

Built for District Success

Districts rely on substitute teachers to provide continuity of learning and maintain positive classroom environments. Well-prepared substitutes contribute to stronger student outcomes, fewer classroom disruptions, and more consistent instructional experiences.

Built for District Success

Districts rely on substitute teachers to provide continuity of learning and maintain positive classroom environments. Well-prepared substitutes contribute to stronger student outcomes, fewer classroom disruptions, and more consistent instructional experiences.
Talk to an expert
Three people wearing safety glasses work together on assembling or programming a robotic arm with blue tubing on a table.

Step Into Any Classroom with Confidence

Substitute teaching requires flexibility, professionalism, and strong instructional skills. This pathway provides the tools, strategies, and confidence needed to create positive classroom experiences and support student success wherever the day takes you.

Smiling woman in a knitted sweater sitting with a laptop and holding a teal mug while a large white dog with black spots leans on the couch beside her.