Substitutes as Graduate Interns: Everyone Becomes a Winner

When there is a collaborative endeavor between a local university and a neighboring community it is frequently referred to as a “Town and Gown ” project. Substitute teaching has often taken a back seat to major assignments within a school district. Now with an increasing number of faculty, an emphasis for smaller class size, a greater effort in supporting staff development, and the move to meet specific needs within a school or for a specific child, the role of substituting takes on a more meaningful role. Additionally this role can play a critical factor in a “Town and Gown ” effort. The educating and training of graduate pre-service teachers and subsequently employing them as substitutes within a school district can be that unifying thread that becomes a win, win, win situation. Win for the college/university, win for the local school district, and win for the prospective teacher functioning as a substitute. The substitute graduate internship program in Fairfield