Substitute Teacher

Job Description

The Part-Time Head Start Substitute Teacher provides temporary classroom support by implementing developmentally appropriate activities that align with Head Start Performance Standards and program guidelines. This role ensures a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment while following established lesson plans and classroom routines. The Substitute Teacher works collaboratively with staff to promote positive child development, social-emotional growth, and school readiness.

Responsibilities include supervising children, assisting with daily routines, maintaining classroom safety, and supporting a positive learning environment. This position requires flexibility, adaptability, and the ability to effectively manage a classroom in the absence of the regular teacher.

Implement Lesson Plans – Follow the established curriculum and lesson plans provided by the classroom teacher to support children’s learning and development.

Supervise and Engage with Children – Maintain active supervision, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment while engaging children in developmentally appropriate activities.

Support Daily Routines – Assist with classroom routines, including mealtimes, rest periods, toileting, and transitions, while promoting independence and positive behavior.

Ensure Classroom Safety & Compliance – Follow health, safety, and licensing regulations to maintain a clean and hazard‑free learning environment.

Promote Positive Interactions – Foster positive relationships with children by encouraging social‑emotional development, problem‑solving, and respectful communication.

Adapt to Changing Needs – Be flexible and responsive to the needs of the classroom, children, and program staff, ensuring consistency in learning experiences.

Communicate with Staff – Collaborate with classroom staff and supervisors to ensure smooth transitions and report any concerns regarding children or classroom operations.

Maintain Confidentiality & Professionalism – Uphold confidentiality standards and demonstrate professionalism when working with children, families, and staff.

• High School diploma or GED equivalent
• Experience working with young children in a group setting
• Must successfully complete a background check and physical examination in accordance with program requirements
• Willing to complete Head Start‑mandated training and professional development

• Child Development Associate (CDA) in Pre‑k
• Associate degree or coursework in early childhood education (ECE), child development, or related field
• Previous experience in a Head Start or preschool classroom
• Knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards, best practices in early childhood education, and positive behavior management techniques.
• Bilingual (Spanish/English or other languages spoken by program families)

This position is eligible for promotion/transfer. If an appropriate position is available, the employee must meet minimum qualifications, including the promotion/transfer eligibility guidelines.

May be assigned to a primary location with occasional travel to other Head Start centers based on program needs.

Requires regular travel between multiple Head Start centers within the program to provide classroom support as needed.

• Frequent bending, kneeling, squatting, sitting on the floor, and standing for extended periods of time
• Repetitive movements, including reaching, grasping, and stretching for caregiving tasks and classroom activities
• Ability to quickly respond to children’s needs, including participation in emergency situations
• Active indoor and outdoor supervision, including participation in physical play and monitoring playground activities
• Ability to lift, push, pull, move up to 50 lbs.
• Required participation in training, meetings, and professional development may be necessary
• Ability to substitute in multiple locations

The physical requirements for this position, with or without reasonable accommodation, are representative of those that must be met by…