What is one common challenge faced by substitute teachers?

Limited preparation time is a significant challenge faced by substitute teachers. When a substitute teacher steps into the classroom, they often have little to no advance notice regarding the lesson plans or classroom dynamics they will encounter. This can lead to difficulties in effectively managing the class and meeting the needs of the students. Often, substitute teachers may only receive brief instructions or may need to quickly familiarize themselves with the subject material and classroom expectations, which can hinder their ability to deliver quality instruction.

Managing a classroom effectively requires careful planning and preparation, but substitutes frequently do not have the luxury of adequate time to prepare. This reality can lead to an environment where students may not receive the level of instruction they need, potentially impacting their learning experience for that day.