By Danielle Jeal (Originally posted on Instagram in 2024)

Finding a sub when you are ill or in an emergency can be very tricky. Some studios have exceptional strategies in place (thank you awesome Studio Directors) and sometimes that is not their strength (we are still grateful for those of you who are more Type B too!). And other studio simply leave it up to you the dance educator. So here are some strategies I have implemented in the past or present to support me when I need a sub!

1. Schedule Swap Teachers: This is best organized in the year prior, either by studio directors or with a colleague as a personal agreement. Organize your personal schedule to oppose another teacher's schedule that you trust. This way you each have a guaranteed sub in most circumstances!

   
   

2. Coffee Date Teacher Bestie - Take out 2 teachers you know and trust for coffee early in the year. Walk them.through your classes and outlines. Make a group chat and agree to connect when you need subs! Bonus: Write off Coffee- it's for work!

3. Floating TA - This is a paid Teaching Assistant that floats between classes at the studio. Take the time to teach them your syllabus and treat them well! They should be good to go if you or any of your colleagues need a sub that day. 

4. Online Group/Network - Use an online platform and have a sub breakdown ready to go for easy sending. If you don't know where to begin a class plan or sub breakdown check Exult Dance Pro's Dance Instructor Planners or Blank Sub Sheets!

5. Zoom or Recorded Class - Teach via Zoom or offer a pre-recorded virtual class to your studio. While neither are ideal they can absolutely work in a pinch and ensure dancers receive adequate training when you can not be present. For pre-recorded classes we recommend YouTube and private links so that they can be easily streamed at most studios. 

Happy Dancing!