Substitute Teacher

Position Summary

The Substitute Teacher/Assistant will play a crucial role in maintaining the continuity of learning and support for children in the Early Childhood (EC) Division at Children's Aid (CA). This position is designed to provide temporary coverage for classroom teachers and assistant teachers, ensuring that all children continue to reach developmentally appropriate milestones through evidence-based curricula, individualized support, and high-quality learning environments. The Substitute Teacher/Assistant will work collaboratively with the teaching team to meet the needs of the children and families, aligning with the mission, vision, and core values of CA.

Essential Duties

• Strategic Oversight

• Understand and promote the organization’s Mission, Vision, and Core Values to ensure alignment with organizational policies and procedures.
• Support the teaching team in implementing strategies that align with educational goals and organizational standards.

• Curriculum Implementation

• Promote high-quality teaching and learning in the classroom to support children's school readiness.
• Aid in providing responsive care through individualized planning, instruction, and supervision.
• Help design and execute a developmentally appropriate and integrated curriculum that provides opportunities for meaningful exploration.

• Classroom Preparation

• Prepare and organize materials and resources needed for daily lessons, activities, and projects.
• Set up and maintain an inviting and conducive learning environment, including the arrangement of learning centers and displays.

• Small Group and Individualized Instruction

• Conduct small group activities under the guidance of the lead teacher and our Education Director to reinforce lesson concepts and provide additional support to students as needed.
• Work one-on-one with students who require extra assistance, ensuring personalized attention to meet specific learning needs.
• Collaborate with the teaching team to implement individualized education plans (IEPs) and accommodate students with diverse abilities.

• Behavioral Support

• Support the teaching team in maintaining a positive and inclusive classroom environment by reinforcing classroom rules and expectations.
• Address behavioral challenges by employing positive reinforcement strategies and seeking guidance from the lead teacher or school administration.

• Technology Integration

• Assist in integrating technology tools into the curriculum, helping students with educational software, and managing technology resources within the classroom.

• Record Maintenance, Screening, and Assessment

• Absorb educational records and portfolios on each child, including implementing child observations, screening, and assessments.
• Observe and document students’ development to request additional support from the lead teacher or Education Director.

• Family Engagement

• Encourage parent involvement and communication through newsletters, bulletin boards, classroom events, and an "open-door" policy.
• Participate in home visits, Parent/Teacher conferences, Open Houses, and/or Family Days as needed.
• Aid in recruiting new families for the program through community outreach and hosting recruitment events.

• Data Analysis

• Collect, analyze, and report on data related to student progress and classroom activities to inform continuous improvement efforts.
• Utilize data to identify trends, gaps, and areas for improvement in instructional practices and student support.

• Professional Development

• Participate in all agency-offered training courses, workshops, In-Service days, and/or All-Staff conferences.
• Maintain certification requirements and proof of attendance in professional activities.
• Support the growth of the center by participating in program-wide goal setting, self-assessment, and reflection coaching experiences.

• Health and Safety

• Adhere to all state and city licensing requirements, including teacher-child ratios, CPR/first aid, Child Abuse Mandate, and Infectious Control.
• Maintain a safe and healthy environment for children, ensuring that classrooms are clean and well-maintained.
• Abide by privacy laws, including HIPPA.
• Must comply with all health and safety guidelines, including maintaining a safe environment for children in accordance with CDC, DOHMH, and ECERS guidance.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Minimum Qualifications

• Substitute I:

• A High School/Local/IEP Diploma or GED is required.

• Substitute II:

• An Associate degree or equivalent credits (in any area) and a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or enrollment in a CDA program to be completed within 2 years.

• Substitute III:

• A Bachelor’s Degree (in any area) and a CDA credential or enrollment in a CDA program to be completed within 2 years.

• Substitute IV:

• A Master’s Degree (in any area) and a CDA credential or enrollment in a CDA program to be completed within 2 years.

Key Competencies

• Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred.
• Experience working with infants, toddlers, and children with special needs.
• Passionate about teaching and learning with young children.
• Effective communication skills and a professional approach.
• Reflective on teaching practices and committed to continuous improvement.