Substitute Handbook
Our Mission
In partnership with families and our community, Lakewood School District creates inclusive, caring environments where every student belongs and is challenged to think critically and build social emotional skills and achieve academic excellence in preparation for life and aspirations beyond graduation.
Welcome to Lakewood!
We are pleased to welcome you to the Lakewood School District. Your role as a substitute—whether in a classroom, on a bus, in the cafeteria, or in other vital positions—is essential to our students’ success and our district’s smooth operation.
Lakewood is a small district with big ambitions. We believe every student deserves equitable access to powerful learning, and that belief begins with committed professionals like you.
This handbook will help you navigate your work with confidence. Inside, you’ll find key expectations, procedures, and resources to support your success. We invite you to engage with our mission, lead through service, and join us in building a strong community of care.
We are committed to:
- Service, Leadership, and a Community of Caring – Creating safe, supportive, and inclusive environments where all students and staff feel seen, heard, and valued.
- Equitable Access to Powerful Learning – Removing barriers to learning and offering real-world, student-centered instruction that prepares all learners for future success.
- Collaborative Family and Community Engagement – Building authentic partnerships with families, businesses, and community organizations to foster student growth and achievement.
Thank you for choosing to serve Lakewood.
Human Resources Department
Lakewood School District
Inspiring Growth. Empowering Futures.
Important Information for Substitutes
- Substitute Employment in Lakewood: At-Will Employment
- Substitute Role Expectations
- Accepting Jobs
- Job Cancellations
- Assignment Flexibility
- Planning Periods (Certificated Substitutes)
- Change in Status or Availability
- Pay Dates & Pay Periods
- Sick Leave (I-1433): What Substitutes Need to Know
- Pay Rates
- Emergency Closures / Delays
- Reasonable Assurance Breaks
- School Hours
- Day-of-Assignment Guidelines
- Technology & Communication
- Confidentiality & Ethics
- Suicide Prevention
- Lakewood School District – School Contacts
- Lakewood School District Policies
