All teachers are bound to need a substitute teacher at some point in their career. But, if you ask any teacher, getting the plans for the substitute teacher is not easy. It takes time and effort to put together all the information a substitute will need to make sure your classroom is run well while you are away.

Fortunately, there are easier ways to get the plans and information to your substitute teacher. By creating a digital folder for a substitute, you will have everything in one place, and you have the luxury of updating it from home! Here’s a quick guide for how to create digital folders for the substitute teacher:

Start with Google Drive

Begin by setting up a google drive (or other cloud storage) account. Cloud storage is important because it allows access from anywhere. Once you have accessed the cloud site, you are ready to create the substitute teacher folder.

Create a New Folder Just for Sub Plans

In Google Drive, you will locate “add new.” But, you will select “New Folder.” Be sure to name this folder “Substitute Folder.” Now, you are ready to begin adding materials to the folder. Since this is cloud storage, you may upload any files to the folder. Not only may you add files with instructions, but you can also upload pictures and videos. You can upload files or pull from Google Docs.

What to Include in the Substitute Folder

The digital substitute folder should contain all the same things the traditional substitute binder would have. However, you want to have each file clearly labeled. For example, in addition to the lesson plans, you will need to include class rosters, class schedules, seating charts, classroom management plans, and additional resources.

One of the great things about a digital substitute folder is that you can add and remove from anywhere. So, if you are at home and remember something, you can add it from home. Plus, using digital tools means it is easy to give your substitute teacher access to digital tools. For example, you can hyperlink on the lesson plan to a Ted Talk lecture you want students to listen to, and all the substitute teacher has to do is click the link and hit play.

Share the Folder with the Substitute Teacher

Finally, you must share the folder with the substitute teacher. Folder sharing is done either through sharing a link or by giving user access (with his or her email address).

Final Considerations

Your digital substitute folder should be updated regularly, and you should make sure that the format is easy to read. Again, label each file clearly: MAY 18, 2018 LESSON PLAN and CLASS ROSTER.