I Subbed for the First Time in 23 Years—Here Are 3 Seriously Important Teacher Truths They Never Taught in Teacher School

I haven’t had my own classroom in almost a year, but for 23 years straight, I poured my heart into making sure that when students walked through my door, they felt like they belonged. Like the classroom was a place they wanted to be.

Recently, I stepped in as a substitute teacher—for the first time in 23 years—and what I learned in that one day confirmed everything I believed to be true about classroom culture, student connection, and what kids actually need from us as educators.

These are 3 powerful truths about teaching that nobody taught me in teacher school… but they should have.

1. Kids Are Craving Connection, Not Just Content

When I walked into a classroom full of students I didn’t know, I introduced myself, told them a few fun facts about me, and gave a quick overview of expectations. But then, I did something different.

I had them write down four things they wish I knew about them—just a simple writing prompt on the back of a packet they were already turning in.

They took it seriously. They wanted to share. I told them no one else would read it but me, and that I couldn’t wait to get to know them just a little bit more.

As they handed their papers in on the way out to recess, some of them were already asking me:

“Did you read mine yet?”
“Did you see what I wrote for number five?”

When they came back and saw I had written a short response on every single one, you should’ve seen their faces. Smiles. Eyes lit up. Pure joy.

That moment validated what I’ve always known deep down:

Kids want to be seen. They want to be heard. And they want to feel cared about.

If you're a teacher reading this and feeling overwhelmed by behavior challenges or disconnection, try this one simple exercise. It doesn’t take long. It doesn’t require training. But it makes an impact.

2. Kids Are Still Just... Kids

Even after less than a year out of the classroom, I forgot how funny and random kids can be. They burst into the room dancing. They made hilarious side comments. They asked the most random questions. It reminded me of something vital:

We have to see them as kids first, and students second.

We’re not managing little robots. These are real, living, breathing, goofy, beautiful human beings with unique personalities and quirks. And often, when we squash that light, it's not intentional… but it still happens—sometimes by a burned-out teacher or an overwhelmed para.

Being back reminded me of the joy I used to feel when I let fun and laughter live in my classroom alongside learning. It was sustainable because it was human.

And honestly? That’s what we need more of in education: permission to enjoy teaching again.

3. Their Struggles Are Real—and So Different

When the students wrote about their lives, the range of responses was staggering.

One student was stressed about not getting to go on vacation.

Another was worried their parents might go to jail.

Another quietly admitted they were going through vape withdrawals.

The truth? Every student is carrying something we can’t see.
And that gap—the struggle gap—is wide and complex.

That’s why we have to lead with empathy over judgment.
We can’t assume every behavior is defiance. Sometimes, it's fear.
Sometimes, it’s trauma.
Sometimes, it’s a silent cry for connection.

I left that day both uplifted and worried. Uplifted because I felt like I had made an impact. But deeply concerned—because what if more teachers don’t learn this?
What if no one ever teaches them how to connect before they correct?
What if they never learn to protect their own peace so they can show up for students?

Final Thoughts from a Teacher Who’s Been There

Subbing after two decades of being in my own classroom was more than a nostalgic moment. It was confirmation. Everything I’ve been sharing with teachers about building connection, embracing student behavior with curiosity, and protecting your peace—it matters.

It’s how we keep the joy. It’s how we prevent burnout. It’s how we make a real difference in students’ lives.

This is the work I’m doing now—helping teachers thrive, not just survive. Because you deserve to love life in the classroom again. And students deserve teachers who feel empowered, confident, and deeply connected.

Let’s change education from the inside out—starting with these small, human, heart-forward truths.

You matter more than you will ever know. xoxo,  Molly