Long term subs shake up Davis High academic environment
By Kate Macaulay
BlueDevilHUB.com Editor–
Students walk into the classroom, eyeing the new substitute with curiosity and wondering how long he will stay. The bell rings and the students take their seats; the tall man introduces himself as Mr. Raymond, “your long-term sub” and immediately starts teaching.
This past year especially, Davis High has seen many long term substitutes throughout their departments. Phil Raymond, previous DHS teacher, stepped into the position of long-term substitute to replace math teacher Rebecca Krumdieck.
Raymond believes that long-term subs are generally more knowledgeable on the subject and are a better option for the kids in terms of education.
“A long-term sub can alleviate most of this [turmoil and anxiety] by immediately beginning lessons that meet the needs of the students, leading to a level of assurance and success,” Raymond said.
Junior Shayleigh Thompson is currently in Raymond’s Integrated Math Three class and is glad to have a real teacher again after a month of substitutes. At first Thompson was worried about having to adjust to a whole new teaching style, but at this point she is happy to learn once more.
After years of teaching math previously, Raymond was able to enter the classroom and immediately begin to gauge the needs, concerns, gaps and any other problems in order to start his teaching. He also had material from his earlier career, which proved helpful because he was able to spend time working directly with students.
Sophomore Quinn Brown enjoys Raymond’s teaching style and after a month without instruction feels like the class is finally learning at a regular pace.
“Raymond has been really good with catching us up after all of the days that we didn’t have a real teacher,” Brown said.
Raymond also sees a positive impact for the students, and is thankful for the seamless transition.
“Things have gone smoothly, the DHS administration has been very supportive, the math department is working hard to improve the program, and I am thankful for the willingness of students to work well, laugh a lot, and help me enjoy my time here,” Raymond said.
