Grades K–5
Sub Folder Checklist
A checklist of the 12 things every sub folder needs, from the class list and dismissal list to emergency maps and early finisher work.
Classroom management printable · Substitute teacher activity packets
Substitute Seating Chart
A seating chart for the sub folder: 30 desk boxes to arrange with student names, and a line to mark the board and the door.
- Grade level
- Grades K–5
- Time
- About 15 minutes
- Answer key
- Not needed: answers vary
- Kids practice
- Planning for a substitute, Independent work, Classroom routines
What kids do
“Write each student’s name where they sit so a guest teacher can learn names fast. Mark the front of the room first.”
Teacher tip
Update the chart each time you change seats, and use first names the sub can read.
How to use it
- Leave clear, short directions and an answer key where the sub can find it.
- Update the folder each grading period, as routines and students change.
- Introduce the sheet once, model it, then make it part of a routine so kids know what to expect.
Watch for
Activities that need too much teaching. A sub day is for review, not new lessons.
Talk about it
- What should we tell our guest teacher about our class?
- What is one thing that went well this week?
Take it further
Have kids write a thank-you note to the sub at the end of the day.
US Letter, prints well in black and white. Free for home and classroom use: print as many copies as you need.
More substitute teacher activity packets
Grades 2–5
Sub Day Reading Response
A no-prep sub day page for any book: title and author, the character, setting, problem and solution, a drawing and a rating.
Grades 3–5
Sub Day Math Mystery
A multiplication code-breaker for a guest teacher day: eight facts to solve, a letter code and a mystery word, with a writing question.
Grades K–2
Hello, Guest Teacher!
A K to 2nd grade welcome page for the sub: finish four sentences about me and our class, then draw a picture for the guest teacher.
Free for teachers
Get the free Classroom Drawing Kit
12 printable pages: six step-by-step lessons, a grid activity, draw-and-write sheets and teacher notes, sent with your welcome email. After that, new classroom printables by email.