Emergency Sub Plans: Be Ready for the Unexpected

Because Sick Days Are Not Planned

You wake up at 5 AM with the flu. You cannot go to school. Do you have sub plans ready? If not, you are either dragging yourself to school sick or writing plans from bed. Neither is acceptable.

What to Include

Class Schedule and Routines -- Daily schedule, lunch/specials times, dismissal procedures. Assume the sub knows nothing about your school.

Seating Chart -- Updated. With student names the sub can actually read.

Emergency Contact -- A neighboring teacher or team member who can answer questions.

Reliable Students -- Name 2-3 students who can help the sub with routines and procedures.

Behavior Notes -- Brief notes about students with significant behavior needs, medical needs, or accommodations.

The Actual Plans -- Activities that any substitute can execute with minimal preparation.

Emergency Activity Ideas

ELA -- Read-aloud with comprehension questions, journal writing prompts, independent reading with response, word work activities.

Math -- Review games, problem-solving challenges, math journal prompts, fact fluency practice.

Cross-Curricular -- STEM challenges with simple materials, art projects with written reflections, research and write about a topic.

Preparation Tips

Keep It Simple -- Emergency plans should not require the sub to learn new technology, access specific websites, or understand complex routines.

Keep It Ready -- Store emergency plans in a clearly labeled folder on your desk or in a shared digital location. Update at the start of each semester.

Make Copies in Advance -- Print worksheets and materials ahead of time. A sub should not need to use the copy machine.

Plan for a Full Day -- Even if you only miss a half day, have a full day of plans ready.

Use the sub plan generator to create detailed, ready-to-use emergency plans.