Substitute Teacher

The Substitute Teacher provides instructional and classroom support in New York State Education Department-approved Universal Pre-Kindergarten (UPK) and Preschool Special Education classrooms during the absence of the assigned teacher. The Substitute Teacher is responsible for maintaining a safe, structured, and developmentally appropriate learning environment while implementing lesson plans and classroom routines as provided. The Substitute Teacher maintains professional communication, ensures student safety at all times, and follows established procedures for documentation, supervision, and emergency response.

The Substitute Teacher may be assigned across multiple classrooms and program types, including integrated UPK settings and Preschool Special Education classrooms, as needed. RESPONSIBILITIES In all assignments, the Substitute Teacher supports the educational, social-emotional, behavioral, and developmental growth of preschool-aged children in accordance with New York State Early Learning Standards, program curriculum, and applicable Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The Substitute Teacher works collaboratively with classroom staff, related service providers, and administrative personnel to ensure continuity of instruction and consistent implementation of approved educational and behavioral supports.

The role requires adherence to NYSED regulations, Office of Children and Family Services licensing standards, and all agency or district policies governing early childhood and special education programming. Implements lesson plans, instructional activities, and classroom routines as provided by the assigned teacher or program staff. Maintains a safe, positive, structured, and developmentally appropriate learning environment. Supports instruction aligned with New York State Early Learning Standards and program curriculum.

Provides supervision of children at all times, including during classroom activities, transitions, meals, toileting, recess, and related activities. Implements and follows Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), behavior intervention plans, and related service recommendations under the direction of certified staff. Utilizes positive behavior supports and developmentally appropriate classroom management strategies. Assists in maintaining classroom organization, routines, and learning centers that promote exploration and engagement.

Communicates professionally with classroom staff, supervisors, and families as appropriate and within program guidelines. Completes required documentation, attendance records, and incident reports accurately and in a timely manner. Maintains confidentiality of student, family, and program information in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. Follows all safety procedures, emergency protocols, OCFS licensing regulations, and NYSED program requirements. Demonstrates flexibility in assignment across UPK, inclusion, and Preschool Special Education classrooms.

Participates in training and professional development as required. Performs other related duties as assigned. ​​​​​EXPERIENCE Experience working with preschool-aged children preferred. Experience in a Universal Pre-Kindergarten, early childhood, childcare, special education, or related educational setting preferred. Experience supporting students with disabilities and diverse learning needs preferred. Strong classroom management, communication, and interpersonal skills preferred. Ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams preferred.

EDUCATION High School Diploma or equivalent required. Associates degree or Bachelors degree in Education, Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Child Development, Human Services, or a related field preferred. Candidates must meet all applicable New York State Education Department (NYSED) requirements for substitute teaching. For short-term (per diem) substitute assignments of 40 days or less*:
New York State teaching certification is preferred but not required. Experience working with preschool-aged children, including children with disabilities, is strongly preferred. For long-term substitute assignments (leave…