Home | How It Works | Stats Login | Register         Case: Substitute problems I once had a substitute come help in a classroom with ESE students who are extremely high needs. The substitute made a comment about the students being “vegetables” this made me extremely uncomfortable and upset. What should I have done in this situation. The sub was only there one day. Solution: (Rates are posted for this solution!) This substitute made an inappropriate and hurtful comment that was directed towards your students. If I was in your situation, I would respectfully and assertively make it clear to them that remarks such as the one they had just made are not tolerated in my classroom. I'd explain that "vegetable" was a distasteful name for the wonderful students that work hard to succeed despite the difficulties they may face. I would most definitely let the school administration know of this incident and write a report to the staffing company if your district uses one. Even though the substitute was only there one day, it only takes one hateful comment to stick with someone. They must take responsibility for their actions as well as face the consequences. We educators do not want people who make those comments in our school systems!