Substitutes Cite "Family" for Teaching in NPD117

They came from various walks of life. Among the more than two dozen people who attended a recent substitute teacher training session were business men and women, grandparents and a police officer.

And there were teachers. Lots of teachers. Everyone in attendance was retired, except for the grandparents who never really retire from being grandparents. They all welcomed the opportunity to serve as substitutes in North Palos School District 117.

Many of the subs were retired NPD117 teachers who were now teaching some of the same students they taught when both were years younger. A few take substitute jobs in several districts. Most stay in D117.

And while some mentioned that the daily stipend they receive helps supplement their monthly incomes, it wasn’t the driving force behind why they serve as substitute teachers.

“It’s the friendly atmosphere and feeling of family you get when you enter the buildings,” said Judyann Mika, a retired D117 teacher who, along with husband Ron, are fixtures in the schools.

“The teachers here are amazing and they leave great lesson plans to follow,” she said. “And don’t forget the hugs. The little ones love to give hugs.”

Ron Mika said he likes being in the classroom and helping students through the learning process. He said it’s great to see the satisfaction in kids’ faces when they understand a tough concept or problem. “You can tell they feel good about themselves. As teachers, that’s a tremendous feeling.”

Teachers also build connections with memories that can last for years - if not a lifetime.

Substitute Scott Sodaro, a retired Hickory Hills Police officer, recalled being in a classroom where a student recognized him as the officer who carried him to an ambulance after a house fire.

“Students don’t forget these things,” Mr. Sodaro said.

Kevin Buscemi, the district’s Director of Recruitment and Retainment, facilitated the meeting and engaged the group in lively discussion on real-life situations while detailing the district’s mission statement and core values.

Mr. Buscemi reminded everyone in attendance that “student and staff safety is always the top priority.” He thanked the substitutes for the important roles they play and added: “You are part of our team. We could not do all the things we do in the district without you. You are all integral to our success.”

The group of substitutes thanked the district for hosting the training session and said that “other districts don’t offer training for substitutes.” They also mentioned how impressed they were with many of the new additions the district has completed or is in the process of completing.

“This is a great school district and a great place to work,” Mr. Mika said. “We are proud to be part of it.”