Emergency Procedures for High School Substitute Teachers
Practical strategies and tips for mastering emergency procedures in high school classrooms as a substitute teacher.
5
Strategies
3
Quick Tips
High School
Grade Level
Why Emergency Procedures Matters for High School Subs
Emergency Procedures is one of the most important skills for substitute teachers in high school settings. Without the established relationships that regular teachers have, substitutes must rely on strong emergency procedures techniques from the very first minute.
Practical Strategies
Review all emergency protocols specific to your assigned room, including lab safety if applicable
Know the difference between lockdown, lockout, shelter-in-place, and evacuation procedures
Take attendance every period and report absences — this data is critical during emergencies
Use a calm, authoritative tone to direct students during emergencies — they will follow confidence
Know the location of emergency exits, rally points, and the nearest administrator's office
Common Challenges in High School
Students who refuse to follow lockdown procedures or want to leave to find friends or family
Managing large classrooms (30+ students) during evacuation through narrow hallways
Science labs or shop classes with additional hazards that require specific shutdown procedures
Quick Tips
If students want to call parents during an emergency, allow it briefly but insist they stay in place
Never prop open fire doors or emergency exits, even during non-emergency times
In a real lockdown, ignore any knocking on the door unless you hear an administrator's specific code word
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Resources
Master Emergency Procedures in the Classroom
Our training courses cover emergency procedures and other essential skills for high school substitute teachers.