Celebrating our guest teachers during Substitute Teacher Appreciation Week
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Substitute Teacher Appreciation Week is March 9 to 13, 2026
They help maintain the culture, structures, and expectations that make our school such a positive place to learn. Walking into a classroom and a building without knowing exactly what the day will hold takes remarkable flexibility, professionalism, and courage. Yet, day after day, our Guest Teachers step in with a willingness to do whatever needs to be done to support students and staff.
Their work is tough, deeply important, and incredibly appreciated. Our school runs better—and feels better—because of them.
Stacey Swanson, Principal, C. Ian McLaren
In Foothills School Division, we intentionally use the term Guest Teacher because it reflects the respect and value we hold for these educators. Just as we honour guests in our homes, we welcome these teachers into our schools and classrooms as trusted partners in learning. The term recognizes the expertise, preparation, and meaningful contributions they make each time they walk through our doors.
Guest teachers:
- Build strong relationships with students, sometimes on very short notice
- Adapt quickly to different schools, classrooms, and learning needs
- Bring new perspectives and creative approaches to teaching
- Support the continuity and stability of learning across the division
"We are a unique constant to some schools and a blink of an eye in others. Remembered as a first contact or conflict negotiator, a person to finally open up to, or the weird alien trying to destroy the classroom. We are the teachers of strong emotions, strong opinions, strong memories, and strong connections. We potentially teach students how to tie their shoes and supervise their Welding shop or Social 30 Diploma Exam. Guest teachers are glue and gum and bandaids and first aid, we connect the islands of schools by being the ships that travel regularly between the different school cultures. We let colleagues know they are not alone and being away from school to learn or heal is safe to do, we are there for their kids."
- Guest Teacher, 24 years with FSD
"I love guest teaching in the same school! I feel this allows me to form meaningful relationships with students and teachers. I get to know their needs and interests, and can teach more effectively. The teachers and I often collaborate together. I appreciate the trust teachers place in me to create engaging lessons and take care of the needs of their class. And it's a blessing to be able to see the students' growth over the years! I treasure the moments when students I've taught before find me from all over the school, give me hugs and smiles, and tell me stories of their lives. Even though I'm "just" a Guest Teacher, I feel I can still do what I love, which is teach children and have an impact on their lives. I know I make a difference and have an important role in FSD!"
- Guest Teacher, 9 Years with FSD
"The FSD Flourishing framework emphasizes well‑being, belonging, and strong learning environments. When guest teachers step into a school they’re not just “filling in”; they’re actively shaping the continuity and climate of the students learning and the school community."
- Guest Teacher, 4 Years Guest Teaching
and 15+ with the Division
"Even after five years as a guest teacher, I still genuinely enjoy teaching and interacting with students. The role allows me to focus on meaningful connections in the classroom without the extensive planning and reporting that come with a full-time position. As a guest teacher, I value the opportunity to link learning to real-world experiences and to help boost student engagement."
Guest Teacher, 5 Years Guest Teaching
and 15+ with the Division
This week, we say, "Thank you for Answering the Call" to the guest teachers in our system. Your commitment, professionalism, and care make a lasting difference for our students and our schools. We are grateful for you today and every day. We’re excited to recognize our guest teachers at the ATA & FSD Guest Teacher Information & Appreciation Event on Wednesday, March 11 — a chance to say thank you in person and honour the impact guest teachers have across Foothills School Division.
