Substitute teachers make a school of a difference in the classroom
In a classroom, it is pretty typical to hear a teacher tell their students, “Teachers have lives too.” Though often forgotten, teachers have numerous responsibilities in the classroom, and even more so in their daily lives. When a teacher’s life takes them out of school for extended periods of time, classes rely on long-term substitutes to continue instruction for students. These substitutes play a vital role in upholding efficient learning and academic success at Newbury Park High School.
Jesse Oliver, a psychology long-term substitute teacher for Jenna Cirillo-Chapell, has taken on the challenge of learning and teaching new subjects at the same time. “I’ve actually never taught psychology before… Sometimes you learn the stuff the night before you teach it,” Oliver said. Oliver moved from Nevada back to the Conejo Valley, his hometown, a few years ago where he continues to teach. Though not a permanent teacher, Oliver still tries to connect with students. “It’s always a bummer to get such little time and tap out to leave at some point. But I’ve kind of gotten used to making the best out of the little time I have,” Oliver said.
Afton Washburn, math teacher at NPHS, has been on maternity leave four times throughout her career and has had three long-term substitute teachers. “It does take a lot to give control of your class to another teacher…I’m very grateful for them, because it has allowed me to have a little time at home with my newborn babies,” Washburn said. Though she plans extensively to prepare for her absence, Washburn recognizes the difficulties that students can face in the process. “I know it’s tricky for the students, because they have to get used to two different teachers. And even though the sub can use the material that you give them … it’s still a different person, different personality, different teaching method,” Washburn said.
Although there are challenges, many students appreciate the efforts their subs put into mirroring their teacher’s style. Keira Overbeck, sophomore, had a long-term substitute teacher in her English 9 Honors class last year for over a semester. “My substitute teacher merged the teaching styles while keeping my usual [teacher’s] structure. It was beneficial to me as a student because I already knew how the class was going to run,” Overbeck said.
As the end of the first semester approaches, Oliver’s tenure is soon to conclude at NPHS. “I’m sad to leave. Actually, I really like it here. Newbury is a great school… I’m grateful that Mr. Lepire chose me to spend some time here,” Oliver said.
