Be positive and cheerful, even when you aren't feeling great. Arrive on time unless you are called late. Let the secretary know if you had a late call [with your estimated time of arrival].

Introduce yourself to secretary, principal, teachers, custodian, etc. If you have time, scope out the school to find out where everything is located [and introduce yourself to neighboring teacher/s]. Leave the room in as good shape, or better than you found it. I have been in rooms that were so tidy, there was nothing on the teacher's desk, and in rooms where I couldn't even find the desk! Make a seating chart if one is not provided, and copy the attendance list before sending it in [and know your emergency exit route]. Ask for help when you need it, but don't make a nuisance of yourself.

Ask reliable students for assistance. Younger students usually love to help out. Be firm, fair, and friendly. Tell the students something they can relate to, such as, "Ms. Anderson is a good friend of mine," or "I have a son named Brian in second grade."

Bring some grade/subject appropriate activities with you, in case there are no or few plans. Try to follow plans as much as possible. Lock the room when you are out, if you are given a key. If someone comes into the room to borrow something, make a note of it. You don't want to be accused of taking anything. 

Check to see that windows are shut and shades are returned to position at the end of the day. Leave a brief note to teacher describing what you did for the day. Don't go into great detail, unless he/she asks you to write down everything. List any changes that were made in the schedule, and tell why they were made. Don't complain about student behavior, unless absolutely necessary. Write a compliment about the class, plans or activities. Tell something you enjoyed about the day.

Remember to return key to office, and have time sheet signed. If you want to return to the school, let the teacher and secretary know. Leave your phone number, district ID number, and e-mail address. Leave a business card for other teachers in the building. Tell them if you live nearby, and if you are available for last minute calls. Let them know what your specialties are...music, art, whatever.

I forgot to add that you should try to have a little fun with the students. With young children you can tell riddles, and let them tell you some. You can also sing, read a favorite story, and play a game: Seven-Up and Twenty Questions are usually hits with elementary age students. Keep smiling, and let students know that you appreciate them.

Be flexible, don't panic, and give thanks for making it through another day. Breathe!

Best wishes, Judy