Campaign

Substitute Teachers' Appreciation Week

Children pointing at a tablet held by a substitute teacher

Substitute teachers contribute to public education in Alberta. The ATA’s Substitute Teachers’ Appreciation Week recognizes their efforts.

During this week, the ATA encourages teachers, schools, locals and school divisions to find meaningful ways to celebrate the substitute teachers in their communities.

Here are some ways you might show thanks to substitute teachers in your area: 

  • Write personalized thank you cards or letters  
  • Highlight their contributions in newsletters and social media posts
  • Spotlight them at your next meeting or event
  • Organize gift certificates from local restaurants or bookstores to show appreciation
  • Host a special breakfast, lunch or tea in their honour

Showing support for substitute teachers should happen throughout the year. You can do so in your schools, locals and divisions by  

  • providing them with a mailbox, so they can access copies of the ATA News and the ATA Magazine. They can use it to access local, school and district information as well.
  • creating substitute teacher handbooks with essential information about school policies.
  • inviting them to attend upcoming school professional development events and staff meetings.
  • encouraging them to attend the annual Teachers’ Conventions and the Substitute Teachers’ Conference.
  • creating substitute teacher positions on your local executive or local substitute teachers’ committees.
  • providing substitute teachers at your school with a letter or card highlighting their strengths. Explain how they contribute to the school and the teaching profession.
  • encouraging school leaders to observe and assess these teachers. This will support them in receiving permanent professional certification.
  • working together to identify and address their professional needs.

Free workshops for substitute teachers 

During Substitute Teachers’ Appreciation Week, the ATA is offering the following free workshops tailored to substitute teachers in Alberta. Each workshop will be held online via Zoom from 6 to 7 PM. 

Members, register now for these workshops 

 

ATA supports for substitute teachers

Find out more about the programs and services the ATA provides to substitute teachers.

Learn more