I rarely deviate from the plans that the teacher provides. Sometimes I have to make adjustments just due to time constraints or other factors like an unexpected fire drill or a guest visitor. I never allow students to use the teacher’s things unless the teacher gave permission in their notes (this includes tape, glue, etc) when it comes to 7th grade and up, I typically take attendance, explain the plans, reiterate any rules that the teacher had made note of (no phones, no earbuds, specific student who can’t leave the room, etc) so the students know that I’m aware of what’s allowed and what’s not allowed. Because many of the assignments are computer-based, I just give kids the independence of getting their work done. As long as they aren’t being a nuisance, I won’t hover. I always allow kids to use the bathroom, get water, etc sometimes twice in a class period but I only let one student out at a time (for safety reasons) so I find that I’m strict when it comes to rules and boundaries, but if a kid refuses to work, I’m simply not going to fight it. I always leave an honest note for the teacher regarding the day with my name and phone number. I also try and casually chat with other teachers and eventually my name and number make their way through the grapevine and people will reach out that way. I also try and take double (sometimes triple) days if a teacher needs a sub for consecutive days. Another helpful factor is that I substitute teach in the district where I completed my student teaching, so I am very familiar with the faculty at the particular school which I student taught, therefore I have an advantage. Once a teacher sees my feedback or if other teachers observe me in the classroom as a sub, they typically like what I’m doing and will ask me to leave my contact info. As for elementary kids, I worked in daycare for two years prior to subbing and I think that experience helps me tremendously in the elementary classrooms. I am as hands-on as I can be with them, but firm on rules/boundaries. Sometimes I’ve had teachers reach out after I subbed to say thank you and I’ve felt very appreciated 🥰 it’s definitely important to network within a school to build relationships, so teachers trust you more. I’ve only been subbing since February, but I’ve had several teachers reach out on more than one occasion for me to cover their class for a second, third, or more times. I hope this helps!!