As the school year settles into its rhythm, substitute teachers play a crucial role in keeping classes on track during teacher absences, giving them a front-row seat to Carlmont’s culture, community, and daily routines.
Across the country, the number of available substitutes dropped sharply during the pandemic, reaching lows in 2021. Since then, schools have gradually regained staffing, and districts like the Sequoia Union High School District (SUHSD) have seen more stability. This recovery has allowed substitutes to take on consistent work again and reflect on what the job looks like today.
“Carlmont stands out because of the classroom behavior, the expectations, and of course the administration,” said Carlmont substitute teacher Fnu Swaranjeet Kaur.
At Carlmont, substitutes say their work is more than filling in for a day; it provides structure and continuity for both teachers and students.
“I definitely enjoy substitute teaching because I believe substitute teachers are a very integral part of a school system. They help the school system run very smoothly,” Kaur said.
For Kaur, the job is rewarding because it gives her the chance to support students while learning to navigate a variety of classrooms and teaching styles.
“Students probably do not realize that many people who choose to become substitute teachers are motivated by a desire to serve the community,” said Bianca Forrester, the Executive Director of Human Resources for SUHSD.
From the outside, substituting might seem simple. However, figuring out how to substitute for different classes can be challenging.
“Every individual class period has its own personality and rhythm to it,” said Carlmont substitute teacher Laura Thane. “You have to come in and quickly get the vibe of the class and figure out how to best manage the class.”
As staffing levels for teachers continue to stabilize nationwide, fewer schools report understaffing. This shift directly affects how often substitutes are needed, but it also creates more consistent and predictable schedules for substitutes who regularly return to the same campuses.
Looking back on her experience, Kaur said the role has taught her more than she expected.
“You get to learn new classroom management skills, how to adapt yourself every day in a new learning environment. I think you come out as a better person who is more flexible and can adapt yourself every day to a new learning and challenging environment,” Kaur said.
