School district presents orientation for substitutes

FLORENCE - About 40 substitute teachers in the Florence school district got a little extra teacher training Friday.

School officials at Florence Middle School/Freshman Center provided information for the district's substitute teachers during a lunchtime presentation. It was done in hopes of making the school year run a little smoother.

"It's just good for all of us to be on the same page," Florence Middle School Assistant Principal Marie Matlock told the group. "You all are a part of our family, and we intend to treat you that way. We want you to enjoy your time here."

Many of the substitutes who attended the session are new to the district.

Each participant received a substitute handbook that outlines what's expected of substitute teachers, as well as school policies and safety procedures.

Matlock said the meeting was designed to address everything from the most basic rules of the school to reviewing plans for how to deal with more serious situations such as school lockdowns.

Principal Bill Griffin told the group that safety procedures and discipline are two factors "that we will all strictly abide by because they're essential for student success."

He stressed his appreciation, and then joked, "I really hope I don't see you on the first day of school."

School begins in Florence on Aug. 10. Substitutes in the Florence district are contracted through Kelly Services, a temporary placement agency.

Florence resident Pam Romine has substituted in Florence schools for nine years, and it's a job she takes seriously.

"I absolutely love it," she said. "I like being organized and having my classroom organized. The teachers I sub for expect organization and the students do, too.

"I've learned over the years that it's just easier to communicate with the students when you're organized because they know what to expect from you and they understand that you have certain expectations of them. I strive to be firm in the classroom, but in a nice way."

Lisa Singleton-Rickman can be reached at 740-5735 or lisa.singleton-rickman@TimesDaily.com.