Substitute Teacher

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.

Responsibilities:

• 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

Key Behaviors:

• 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

Responsibilities:

• 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

Key Behaviors:

• 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

Responsibilities:

• 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

Key Behaviors:

• 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

Responsibilities:

• 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

Key Behaviors:

• 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

Responsibilities:

• 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

Key Behaviors:

• 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

Responsibilities:

• Communicate effectively with Lead Teachers, Assistant Teachers, and supervisors
• Share relevant information about the classroom day as needed
• Complete basic classroom documentation when assigned

Key Behaviors:

• Listens actively and follows instructions
• Communicates clearly, respectfully, and professionally
• Works cooperatively as part of a teaching team
• Maintains a positive, supportive attitude