Substitute Teacher Aide

Substitute Teacher Aide

The Substitute Teacher Aide travels to a variety of early learning classrooms within our Southeast Kansas area. You will provide children with the necessary academic, social, and behavior skills, while adjusting their teaching to the individual needs of each student in the classroom. This position supports continuity of children's education and care by providing classroom support to ensure appropriate adult/child ratios, while supporting a safe environment that encourages play, exploration, and learning, using a variety of resources.

You will work as an effective team member on each site as assigned and implement guidance given from Lead Teacher and/or Center Manager on site. This position is provided with a weekly schedule and uses an agency assigned vehicle to drive from their home to assigned centers.

Child Interaction & Supervision

• Engage with children in ways that support their language development, learning, and overall growth.
• Demonstrate patience and understanding based on each child's developmental level.
• Ensure active supervision of children using indoor/outdoor zoning and by assisting in multiple classrooms as needed.
• Participate in and guide children through mealtime routines, including Family Style Meals and cafeteria transitions.
• Follow all emergency procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of children and staff during drills or real incidents.

Learning Environment & Curriculum Support

• Collaborate with classroom staff to maintain a safe, welcoming, and engaging learning environment.
• Support the daily schedule and encourage child choice in learning experiences.
• Assist in implementing the agency's curriculum and social-emotional strategies to prevent and address challenging behaviors.
• Conduct child observations and accurately document findings in the data system.
• Remain flexible to perform other duties as needed to meet the educational and care needs of children.

Collaboration & Adaptability

• Communicate effectively and respectfully with children, families, staff, and community partners, both verbally and in writing.
• Foster positive, professional relationships with co-workers, families, and volunteers.
• Maintain flexibility throughout the workday and adjust to changes in tasks or routines as needed.
• Demonstrate self-regulation and composure in high-stress or fast-paced situations.
• Effectively manage multiple responsibilities and prioritize tasks during busy periods.

Attendance, Professionalism & Teamwork

• Maintain regular, reliable attendance to ensure consistency and safety for children.
• Demonstrate professionalism by actively advocating for SEK-CAP, Inc. within the community and serving as a strong advocate for Head Start children and families.
• Respecting and supporting cultural differences and diverse family structures while maintaining strict confidentiality and privacy of all those involved with SEK-CAP. Through these actions, the Substitute Teacher Aide upholds the agency's mission and fosters trust, inclusivity, and positive relationships with families and the community.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive, effective working relationships with co-workers, community partners, and customers.
• Demonstrate a strong work ethic by adhering to schedules, following supervision directives, and complying with all agency policies and procedures.

Knowledge and Experience

• Basic computer skills, must have a working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, data entry, email and digital calendars
• Basic operation skills of general office equipment such as photocopiers, faxes, and phone systems.
• Superior interpersonal skills. Ability to get along with diverse personalities. Tactful, mature, and flexible.
• Ability to meet and deal tactfully with the public and to communicate effectively and clearly both orally and in writing.
• Resourceful and well-organized.
• Ability to learn and adapt.

Education and Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent, and/or
• Enrollment in a program leading to a degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field, or
• A state-awarded certificate that meets or exceeds CDA requirements, or
• Infant/Toddler CDA credential, or the ability to obtain the Infant/Toddler CDA within one year of hire and keep current.

Additional requirements:

• 3-5 years of experience working with young children in a classroom setting preferred.
• Eligible to obtain KDHE program approval.
• Obtain and uphold current First Aid and CPR certification.
• Submit to and pass standard criminal history check.
• Possess current, valid driver's license and meet agency insurance underwriting guidelines.
• Successfully complete a physical exam and TB skin test before beginning employment.

Physical Requirements/Work Environment

• Ability to use hands and fingers to handle or operate objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; and communicate effectively in person and by telephone.
• Vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Ability to sit,…