Amanda is a fantastic and hard-working substitute teacher. She is flexible and is always willing to help. Amanda will sub from Pre-K to high school. She’ll work day-to-day or take a long term. If an assignment gets cancelled, she’s right back out there looking for another job. Her dedication to help the students and schools is much appreciated. We are lucky to have Amanda on the MHED Team.
Tell us about your family.
I am originally from American Fork Utah, but I grew up in the suburbs of Chicago. I attended Brigham Young University, where I got my degree in human development of special needs children. I met my husband right after I got my degree, and I put him through chiropractic school. We have five children: My son, Matt (22), and daughters, Denise (18), Genevieve (16),Elizabeth (12) and Bradleigh (8). After my husband and I got married, we have lived in Utah,Texas, Missouri, and several cities in Illinois. We moved to Kansas City 2 1/2 years ago when my husband got a job change to a clinic here.
Why did you become a substitute teacher?
I became a substitute teacher to have a job in the community where I could have the same schedule as my children. I started as a sub in Illinois and then again here in Kansas City.
What are some of your most memorable experiences of substitute teaching?
My most memorable experiences as a substitute have been as a long-term sub where I have gotten to know the children in my classes. Both in Illinois, and in Kansas, I have subbed an entire semester with a life skills classroom, which has been challenging, but has been, one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. To help these kids learn and grow and see that growth is just absolutely remarkable. It also helped me to have greater appreciation for those that have helped my own children who have special needs as they have grown and become amazing human beings.
What advice would you give substitute teachers to have a successful day?
The number one thing I tell all substitutes and the students they sub, is to be flexible. If you can’t be flexible, you’re gonna have a rough day. You never know what these kids are gonna throw at you.