Knowing your students helps you to figure out the best way to prepare them for a substitute teacher. In some cases, if you tell your students in advance there is going to be a substitute, they might try to take advantage of the situation. However, it is always a good idea to talk with the class at the beginning of the year about what you expect from them when you are not with them and how you would like them to report their observations about what goes on in your absence. It helps to emphasize with students the important work that is going on in your classroom and why maintaining progress is a goal for both you and the students. You should also help them understand how it feels to be new to an experience or classroom and what they can do as a group and individually to make the day go well for the substitute teacher. You may also want to discuss appropriate ways of dealing with all visitors to the school, including substitute teachers. Some teachers find it works well to tell students in advance of a planned absence. Discussing with students what you have planned for them to do and what you hope to find upon your return can clearly set the stage for success. Also, you may want to designate two students to act as special assistants to the substitute teacher. Their job is to assist both you and the substitute teacher by helping the class run smoothly, offering answers to any questions the substitute might have about location of materials or school and classroom routines. Rotate this responsibility throughout the school year so different students can take on this role.