The Sub

The series is based on the obstacles encountered when deciding to make some semblance of a commitment to education. While all episodes are scripted, there will be leeway for actors to improvise. Most episodes will be based on reality with a humorous interpretation to public issues and their solutions. While some characters may appear 3 dimensional and boisterous, others will seem superficial and lacking of depth. However, isn't that like much like life? All in all, what’s real is real, what’s funny is funny, what’s heartbreaking is heartbreaking, and it all happens in this fictitious place called, Anywhere United School District, U.S.D. Pilot Episode: “WELCOME BACK” The telephone rings and an automated computerized voice informs former credentialed teacher, now struggling writer and substitute, MR. BAXTER, that he’s been requested to work at Budlong Middle School; the same school he formerly worked full-time. Once back, old relationships are rekindled as Mr. Baxter reconnects with the bureaucratic, mechanical system of gossip, envy, perceived power, sex, and his own impetus to make a difference. Entangled with a difficult class of unruly, urban students, Mr. Baxter attempts to manage his sanity with his own sense of untamed humor and wit. This brings him into direct opposition with LAQUITA, a no nonsense, high-spirited 8th grader, who knows all the rules, and would rather take control of the class and get him fired, than obey his authority. As the day unfolds Mr. Baxter runs into several old friends, acquaintances and foes. One of which is MARIA, an old flame who enlists him in helping her illegally forge her high school diploma so that she can keep her job as the school custodian. Then there’s MR. HOLDEN, an envious worm of a man, who in the morning, spied Mr. Baxter’s Mercedes as he frantically drove it into the parking lot. When he boldly questions Mr. Baxter about his means to afford a luxury car on a substitute teacher’s salary, Mr. Baxter concedes to the stereotype and sarcastically responds that he bought it using illegal means. At the end of the school day, MRS. PEEK, the no-nonsense office manager and preacher’s wife, informs Mr. Baxter that MS. JACKSON, the regular classroom teacher, has called out on stress and that she (Mrs. Peek) has put him in the substitute system for the entire week. This comes as a shock to him because he was only hoping (more like praying) to be in that position for only a day. Bent on declining the job, Mrs. Peek rushes out of the office, leaving a baffled Mr. Baxter standing with his mouth open, perplexed and somewhat discombobulated.