Early Head Start Substitute Teacher

About the role

At Upbring, our team is united by a shared mission: to break the cycle of child abuse and advance the wellbeing of children, families and communities, empowering them to thrive. As servant-leaders, we lead by example, working passionately to create a brighter future for those we serve. Every day, we strive to embody our core values: We are Warriors: Fierce, resilient, and courageous, we face challenges head-on with unwavering loyalty and passion. We are Servants: We dedicate ourselves to serving others, empowering those around us to thrive. We are Family: We work together as a supportive, caring community, creating a sense of belonging and strength. Joining Upbring means becoming part of a family of passionate individuals who are fearless in their pursuit of lasting change. Together, we are making a difference, one life at a time.

Responsibilities

• Follow the established curriculum and lesson plans provided by the classroom teacher to support children’s learning and development
• Maintain active supervision, ensuring a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment while engaging children in developmentally appropriate activities
• Assist with classroom routines, including mealtimes, rest periods, toileting, and transitions, while promoting independence and positive behavior
• Follow health, safety, and licensing regulations to maintain a clean and hazard-free learning environment
• Foster positive relationships with children by encouraging social-emotional development, problem-solving, and respectful communication
• Be flexible and responsive to the needs of the classroom, children, and program staff, ensuring consistency in learning experiences
• Collaborate with classroom staff and supervisors to ensure smooth transitions and report any concerns regarding children or classroom operations
• Uphold confidentiality standards and demonstrate professionalism when working with children, families, and staff

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED equivalent
• Willing to complete Head Start-mandated training and professional development

Preferred Qualifications

• Child Development Associate (CDA) in Infant and Toddler and/or Preschool
• Associate’s 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)

Physical Demands & Work Conditions: 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, and move up to 50 lbs.; required participation in training, meetings, and professional development may be necessary; ability to substitute in multiple locations. While performing this position the employee should have the ability to walk, stand, sit, kneel, speak, and hear with aid, see, read,