Classroom Assistant Full-time Substitute

About the role

As a Classroom Assistant Substitute, you will support the growth and development of preschool-aged children (3-5 years old) by stepping in when lead teachers or support staff are unavailable. Your presence helps create a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment that prepares children for future success.

Responsibilities

• Provide coverage across all CenClear Preschool locations (travel required; mileage/time reimbursed per policy)
• Work 40 hours per week (Monday-Friday) during the school year, following the 187-day school calendar; daily schedule may vary based on classroom needs
• Upholds the seven commitments of the Sanctuary model of care
• Lead the classroom in the absence of the lead teacher and assist when support staff is unavailable
• Implement the Creative Curriculum for Preschool and develop lesson plans as needed
• Sets and updates individual goals for children and families
• Covers for classroom staff, including aides and assistants
• Ensures confidentiality according to agency policy
• Documents daily attendance and completes behavior incident reports
• Follows Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) practices and all classroom protocols from the Early Childhood Handbook
• Engages with parents professionally, including communication via Class Dojo
• Collaborate with co-workers for planning activities, parent training, and field trips
• Maintains a professional image and positive relationships with co-workers, school district staff, families, and community members
• Completes a minimum of 24 training hours annually and participates in required meetings and training courses
• Aligns practices with PA Early Learning Standards and the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework
• Participates in public relations events for at least 7.5 hours annually
• Develops and follows a Self-Care and Safety Plan
• Completes additional duties as assigned, ensuring services are equitable and culturally sensitive
• Adheres to school district policies, agency memos, and all guidelines in the Early Childhood Handbook
• Engages in monthly supervision meetings with a supervisor

Requirements

• Individuals must have or be willing to obtain the Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential with hire. This training is paid for by CenClear.
• If an individual does not have a CDA, they must be willing to attend the Highly Qualified training while pursuing a CDA.
• Experience working with children and families
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Effective organizational and multitasking abilities
• Able to network and collaborate with team members
• Knowledge of Early Head Start and Head Start regulations
• Knowledge of child development and early childhood education
• Knowledge of adult learning principles; health, safety and nutrition principles, family dynamics, communicating and motivating adults, community resources and how to link families to these resources
• Basic computer skills
• Must obtain the following clearances prior to hire: PA State Police Criminal History, PA Child Abuse History, FBI Criminal History, and Mandated Reporting Certificate
• Physical ability to perform classroom duties (e.g., lift 50 lbs, sit on the floor, climb stairs, operate cleaning equipment, participate in activities)

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Valid Pennsylvania Driver’s License
• Passing score on a background check

Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information
• Ability to communicate effectively with children, families, and colleagues
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and procedures
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends

Benefits

• Excellent Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance (cost shared)
• Vacation/Sick Leave
• Paid Planning Time
• Flexible Spending Account
• Life Insurance
• Short Term Disability
• Retail Retirement Plan - 401(k) with company match up to 7% based on employee deferment
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) (includes immediate family members)
• 18% discount on Verizon cell phone services
• Flexible Work Schedule (if position qualifies)
• Mileage Reimbursement
• Tuition/Course Reimbursement for applicable coursework
• Student Loan Forgiveness (if position meets PSLF and LRP program requirements)
• Technology and Software Discounts available

Pay

$14.21 per hour

Schedule

Full-time hourly role, Monday-Friday, 8 hours a day, following a 187-day work calendar.