While a substitute teacher may only lead a class for a day, Nina Des Rosiers and CPS substitutes prove that even brief encounters can sow seeds of lasting impact in student lives.
Des Rosiers has been substituting at multiple locations for some time, but has recently been substitute teaching at LEAP Academy since October. Des Rosiers highlighted the importance of building relationships with students along with the support she gets from her school leaders.
“It’s really nice to know that you’ve been appreciated especially by the teacher whose class you watched and the school principals you see,” said Des Rosiers.
One of the memorable highlights of her time substitute teaching was an inspiring encounter with a sixth-grade student. Des Rosiers recounted a transformative moment when she engaged a previously disengaged student through a writing activity.
“I gave this student a free activity where he could write about anything he wanted, rather than the typical topic,” said Des Rosiers. “Apparently that was one of the first assignments this child has ever done at school. Later the teacher came to me saying, ‘ I don't know what you did but ever since then he's actually been awake during our class and he's been participating,’ and that impact I made keeps me going.”
Reflecting on her motivation to pursue substitute teaching, Des Rosiers credited her mother's influence as an educator.
"My mom was an educator so I'm very passionate about making sure that everybody has an equal and fair chance at educational opportunities," said Des Rosiers.
Thank you to all our CPS substitute teachers for the outstanding work being done in classes across the district!
