Substitute Teacher Plan Generator
Build a complete, sub-ready lesson plan that any substitute can follow without prior knowledge of your classroom. Fill in your daily schedule, classroom procedures, important student notes, and emergency information, then download a clearly formatted PDF to leave on your desk. If you want to give the sub a full lesson plan rather than just a schedule, the Lesson Plan Maker generates a detailed I Do / We Do / You Do plan that you can print alongside this document.
Teacher & Class Information
Daily Schedule
Add each period or time block. Click Add Period to insert more rows.
Classroom Information
Preview
What to Include in a Great Sub Plan
A well-prepared substitute teacher plan reduces classroom disruptions and ensures students have a productive day. The most effective plans include these five elements:
A detailed daily schedule — Include start and end times, the subject or activity for each block, and where to find all materials. The more specific, the better.
Clear classroom procedures — Bathroom policy, pencil sharpening, end-of-period routines, and how students signal they need help. Subs can't manage a class without knowing your norms.
Important student information — Medical needs, IEP accommodations, and behavioral considerations. This is the section that matters most for student safety.
Emergency information — Fire drill route, where the emergency binder is kept, and the closest neighboring teacher to contact for serious issues.
A feedback section — Ask the sub to leave a brief note about how the day went. It helps you follow up and improves future plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I prepare sub plans?
Keep a set of emergency sub plans updated at all times — not just when you know you'll be absent. Illness and family emergencies happen without notice. Prepare a 1–2 day independent review packet that doesn't require instruction and update it at the start of each grading period.
Should sub plans contain the same content I would teach?
Ideally yes, but many experienced teachers keep sub plans as review or practice days that are self-explanatory. Use independent reading, worksheet review, or vocabulary study rather than new direct instruction, which is harder for an unfamiliar substitute to deliver accurately.
Where should I keep printed sub plans?
Leave the printed plan on your desk in a clearly labeled folder. Many schools require a copy in the office as well. Tell your neighboring teacher where your sub folder is in case you need to call in an absence early in the morning.
Can I use this for multiple classes in one day?
Yes. Add each class period as a separate period entry with its own time, class name, and instructions. The generator will format all periods into a single organized document.
