Substitute Secretary

Starting Date: Aug 3, 2026

Department: High School

Reports to: High School Principal / House Dean

In compliance with state and federal laws, newton public schools is committed to equity, anti‑racism, and a nondiscrimination policy for students, employees and prospective applicants. All educational and employment determinations are based on an individual’s qualifications and achievements without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, pregnancy, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, ancestry, homelessness, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by state and/or federal statute.

SUMMARY: The purpose of this position is to assist the House Dean in the daily operations of the high school house. Performs a wide variety of complex secretarial and administrative duties under broad supervision of the House Dean. Work requires initiative and independent judgment in the application of prescribed policies, procedures, and methods. Performs all other related work as required.

This is a part‑time position from Aug 3, 2026–Sep 18, 2026.

Recommended

Minimum Qualifications:

Education, Training and

Experience:

High school education and one to two years of office experience or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Knowledge: Thorough knowledge of office procedures, practices and terminology. Knowledge of policies and procedures of the school department and city departments. Working knowledge of laws and policies relevant to the school’s work. Knowledge of computer software applications.

Ability: Ability to deal effectively and tactfully with staff, students and the public. Ability to compose correspondence. Ability to recognize and resolve problems with minimal administrative intervention. Ability to interpret and implement instructions provided in oral and written form. Ability to prioritize and complete multiple tasks at one time with frequent interruptions. Analytical ability, accuracy and attention to detail. Must be able to operate a personal computer and display intermediate to advanced skill when using software programs for word processing, database, spreadsheet and other software as required by the position.

Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. Ability to diffuse difficult situations to enable effective problem solving.

Skill: Expertise and skill in utilizing personal computers, popular word processing, database, and spreadsheet applications. Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills. Excellent written and oral communication skills. Strong organizational skills. Skill in all of the above listed tools and equipment.

Physical Requirements: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, communicate or hear; occasionally required to walk, must be able to handle or feel objects, tools or controls;

and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move objects weighing up to 10 pounds. Vision and hearing at or correctable to normal ranges. This position requires the ability to operate a keyboard and calculator at efficient speed.

• Serves as Confidential Secretary to the House Dean and Assistant House Dean, if applicable. Provides support for three counselors and up to eighty faculty members. House Office Secretary is the first contact with all sectors of the community including students, parents, staff, police, etc.
• Manages the House Dean’s schedule, correspondence, and facilitates meetings. Sets up meetings for the House Dean, Counselors and Teachers regarding IEP meetings. Provides customer service by answering questions both in person or by telephone; provides information relative to school system policies and procedures; refers individuals to appropriate source as required. Responds…