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What do I do when students say "the teacher lets us"?

Go by the plan and the school's rules, not the claim. San Ramon Valley Unified tells subs to follow the teacher's plans as closely as possible and to learn each school's behavior plan. Warren Township suggests telling students each teacher does things a little differently, and saying calmly what the class will do today.

Checked October 30, 2026 against the sources below.

Before students arrive, look for the teacher's notes on routines: bathroom passes, seating, phones, free time. If the note covers it, you have your answer. Warren's handbook expects a seating chart in the sub folder, so check it before anyone tells you where they sit.

If the note is silent and the request is small and safe, you can decide. If it is about leaving the room, phones, food, or anything with a safety side, say no for today and ask the office or the teacher next door.

Write it down. A line in your note such as "several students said they may use phones at lunch in the room" lets the teacher sort it out, and shows you kept to the plan.

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This answers a common question in general. Your district, school and state may differ, and their word wins. Up: All questions · Substitute teachers

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