Substitute Teacher

Location: Eagle Lake

Job Summary The Substitute Teacher provides temporary classroom coverage to support the continuity of high-quality early childhood education services for children enrolled in Early Head Start and Head Start programs. The Substitute Teacher maintains a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment, follows established lesson plans and routines, and supports children’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development in alignment with Head Start Performance Standards.

Competency Area Responsibilities Key  Behaviors Child Development & Learning Support the developmental needs of infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children

Implement age-appropriate activities and experiences based on provided lesson plans

Encourage learning through play, routines, and daily interactions

Observe children and respond to individual interests, strengths, and needs

Engages children at eye level using warm, responsive communication

Encourages exploration, curiosity, and problem-solving

Adjusts interactions based on children’s developmental stages

Demonstrates patience and understanding of young children’s behavior

Health, Safety, & Nutrition Maintain continuous supervision of children at all times

Follow health, safety, and sanitation procedures

Ensure classroom, playground, and materials are safe and developmentally appropriate

Respond appropriately to accidents, injuries, or emergencies

Maintains constant awareness of children’s location and activity

Anticipates potential safety risks and takes preventive action

Follows emergency and reporting procedures without delay

Models safe practices for children

Classroom Management & Behavior Guidance Follow established classroom routines, schedules, and expectations

Use positive behavior guidance strategies consistent with program policies

Support smooth transitions throughout the day Assist children in developing self-regulation and social skills

Responds calmly and consistently to challenging behaviors

Uses redirection and encouragement rather than punishment

Maintains a structured yet flexible classroom environment

Reinforces positive behaviors through modeling and praise

Relationships & Cultural Responsiveness Build respectful, nurturing relationships with children

Support an inclusive classroom that reflects diverse cultures and abilities

Interact professionally and respectfully with families and staff

Support children with disabilities or special needs as directed

Demonstrates respect for diverse family values, cultures, and languages

Uses inclusive language and practices

Shows empathy and sensitivity to children’s individual experiences

Collaborates effectively with classroom staff and support services

Professionalism & Ethical Practice Follow Head Start Performance Standards, licensing requirements, and program policies

Maintain confidentiality of children, families, and staff information

Accept direction from supervisors and teaching team members

Report concerns related to child safety, behavior, or health

Arrives on time and prepared for assignments

Demonstrates flexibility when placed in different classrooms or age groups

Seeks clarification when expectations are unclear

Maintains appropriate professional boundaries at all times

Communication & Team Collaboration Communicate effectively with Lead Teachers, Assistant Teachers, and supervisors

Share relevant information about the classroom day as needed

Complete basic classroom documentation when assigned

Listens actively and follows instructions

Communicates clearly, respectfully, and professionally

Works cooperatively as part of a teaching team Maintains a positive, supportive attitude

Minimum Qualifications Education High  school diploma or GED required

Child Development Associate (CDA) credential preferred (or willingness to obtain, if applicable)
Experience Previous experience working with infants, toddlers, or preschool-aged children preferred

Experience in a group care or early childhood education setting strongly preferred

Knowledge of infant/toddler development and responsive caregiving practices.

Strong communication, organizational, and collaboration skills

Ability to communicate in English, both written and verbally

Licenses/Certifications Current CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain).Background clearance as required by state and federal regulations.

Valid Texas Drivers License Working Conditions & Physical Demands Ability to lift up to 40 pounds,Frequent bending, standing, sitting on the floor, and active movement

Exposure to common childhood illnesses

Performs other duties as assigned

Performance Indicators Child Development outcomes show progress across domains

Compliance with all Head Start standards and state licensing

Positive feedback from family engagement surveys

Timely completion of assessments and documentation

Performs other duties as assigned by Center Director
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