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Keys to success in schools

This article outlines expectations designed to help you succeed as a substitute on the Swing Education Platform.

Updated over 2 weeks ago

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Swing Education’s mission is to connect schools across the U.S. with caring, hard-working substitute teachers. To support this, we provide training and clear expectations to help you succeed in your assignments.


Platform Expectations & Professional Conduct

Schools vary in their policies, but the following behaviors are essential for success across all assignments. If a school or substitute requests to be unlinked, we strive to share any actionable feedback to support your growth.

While we support those who want to improve, certain behaviors are serious safety concerns and grounds for immediate removal from the platform.


Prohibited Conduct

These actions are never acceptable and may result in removal from the platform and possible legal consequences:

  • Physical contact with a student or their belongings

  • Lewd or sexually harassing behavior

  • Inappropriate language or verbal abuse

  • Comments about students’ appearance, identities, abilities, or disabilities

  • Being alone with a student in a private setting

  • Leaving students unattended or failing to monitor them

  • Leaving campus without notifying school staff

  • Showing unauthorized videos or images

  • Transporting students in a vehicle

  • Giving medication to students

  • Contacting students outside of school hours

  • Taking or not returning school property

  • Sharing confidential student or school information (including social media)


Succeeding with Assignments

Reliability Matters

To maintain good standing — and qualify for Star Sub status:

  • Complete all accepted assignments

  • Cancel using the Swing platform if necessary

  • Avoid canceling less than 24 hours before start time


Day-of Assignment Tips

First Impressions Count

Make a strong impression to help build your professional network.

Checking In

  • Arrive on time or early

  • Notify the school immediately if you’ll be late or must cancel

    • Also contact Swing Support

  • Follow the school’s dress code and check-in procedures

  • Ask questions to understand how to support the school

  • Speak professionally with all staff

    • Avoid profanity or controversial topics (e.g., politics, religion, drugs)


Before Class

  • Review lesson plans and prepare materials

  • Understand the school’s behavior and safety policies

  • Locate emergency equipment (exits, extinguishers, etc.)

  • Know how to reach your contact during the day


During Class

Execute duties professionally:

  • Never leave students unsupervised

  • Take accurate attendance and follow hallway pass procedures

  • Monitor students — do not use your phone or personal devices

  • Follow the provided lesson plan

  • Remain objective and neutral with students and topics

  • Notify staff of safety concerns immediately

  • If supporting a lead teacher, follow their directions

When engaging with students:

  • Set and uphold clear expectations

  • Treat students with respect and kindness

  • Be active and present — answer questions, walk the room

  • Respect students' cultural values and backgrounds

  • Do not discuss controversial topics


Between Periods / Breaks

  • Follow hallway and dismissal protocols

  • Only dismiss students at scheduled times

  • Follow all recess, lunch, and break procedures

  • Do not leave students until a qualified adult takes over

  • Get permission before leaving campus


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