It's a new year and as usual, there is a felt expectation to write a "New Year, New Me" post. I have followed suit for a couple of years now, but we are doing things differently this year. Why? Because, why not! Welcome to our first post of 2025!
I came across a meme that said, "Right before class waiting for my favorite instructor to show up and see a sub coming instead," and the reaction video attached was of the celebrity Ice Cube with his facial expression changing from happy and excited, to what looked like a mix of disinterest, sadness, and regret. I understand the disappointment that comes with having a substitute teacher, especially when it is unexpected. It takes a while for some people to find an instructor they really connect with, so the de-stabalization makes sense. As a student, I get this 1000%.
On the other hand, I have had my fair share of substitute instructor opportunities and been on the receiving end of the disappointed faces, the endless, "when is the original teacher coming back?" questions, the comparison of teaching styles, and even some students opting out of classes. It can get extremely overwhelming having to manage all of these, while still showing up and teaching, as expected. It is rough, dancer friends! As an instructor, I get this 1000%.
Anything that's a substitute is not the desired thing, but it comes close enough to pass. It's the next best thing. Substitute instructors will be different from what you're used to. I am not saying ditch your favorite instructor for their sake. I am, also, not saying keep taking a class from a substitute teacher that you don't vibe with to spare their feelings. It's great to have a teacher that you can connect with in this way, and my aim isn't to make anyone feel guilty about that. My goal is simply to shed light on the experience of the substitute instructor, too. Yes, a class with anyone but your favorite instructor isn't what you signed up for. At the same time, you get the opportunity to learn from a new instructor, experience a different teaching style, and most importantly, you get to continue taking your classes as usual, without any scheduling interruptions. At the end of the day, whether it is with your favorite instructor or a substitute instructor, you get to dance...which is the point of all of this, no?
Keep creating & sharing!
~your dancer friend
Comentarios