Teacher - Substitute (Washington, MO, US, 63090-4804)Archdiocese of St. Louis

Job Summary

The Preschool Substitute Teacher is responsible for the care, instruction, and supervision of preschool-aged children, typically ages 3–5, in the absence of the regular classroom teacher. The substitute teacher supports a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment that promotes children's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development.

The Preschool Substitute Teacher follows established lesson plans, classroom routines, and school policies to ensure consistency in children's daily experiences. The successful candidate demonstrates patience, flexibility, sound judgment, and a genuine commitment to supporting the growth and well-being of young children.

Job Responsibilities

1. Classroom Instruction and Activities

• Follow daily schedules, lesson plans, and classroom procedures provided by the regular teacher or school administration.
• Lead developmentally appropriate activities that support early literacy, numeracy, creativity, and fine and gross motor skills.
• Engage children through stories, songs, play, art, movement, and hands-on learning experiences.
• Adjust activities as needed to accommodate children's individual needs, abilities, and developmental levels.
• Encourage exploration, curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning.

2. Classroom Management

• Maintain a warm, welcoming, organized, and structured classroom environment.
• Follow established routines for circle time, meals and snacks, rest periods, transitions, and outdoor play.
• Promote positive behavior through encouragement, redirection, modeling, and positive reinforcement.
• Reinforce classroom expectations and school policies in a consistent, age-appropriate manner.
• Help maintain classroom materials, supplies, and learning spaces.

3. Student Engagement and Development

• Build positive, respectful relationships with children and provide attentive, compassionate care.
• Encourage cooperation, sharing, communication, independence, and problem-solving skills.
• Support children's social-emotional development, including self-regulation and appropriate interactions with peers.
• Provide individualized attention to help every child feel safe, included, and supported.
• Model appropriate language, behavior, and conflict-resolution strategies.

4. Safety, Health, and Well-Being

• Maintain active supervision of children at all times, including during classroom activities, transitions, meals, rest periods, and outdoor play.
• Follow all school health, hygiene, sanitation, and safety procedures.
• Ensure children are accounted for and follow established procedures for arrival, dismissal, and transitions.
• Follow emergency procedures and applicable school policies regarding accidents, injuries, illness, and other incidents.
• Report accidents, injuries, suspected safety concerns, and other significant incidents promptly to the appropriate school personnel.
• Follow all child protection policies, mandated reporting requirements, and applicable regulations.

5. Communication and Documentation

• Communicate professionally and effectively with the regular teacher, preschool director, and other school personnel.
• Provide a summary of classroom activities, significant events, behavioral concerns, and other relevant observations to the regular teacher.
• Complete required incident reports and other documentation accurately and promptly.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding student information, family matters, and school records.
• Refer parent or guardian questions and concerns to the appropriate school personnel when necessary.

6. Professional Responsibilities

• Arrive on time and be prepared to assume classroom responsibilities.
• Demonstrate flexibility and professionalism when working with different classrooms, age groups, and teaching teams.
• Follow school policies, staff expectations, and all applicable licensing and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in required orientations, training, and professional development.
• Support the school's mission, values, and commitment to a positive, respectful learning environment.

Job Requirements

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Coursework, training, or a degree in early childhood education or a related field preferred.

Certifications and Clearances

• Any substitute teaching or childcare credentials required by applicable state regulations and school policies.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification preferred or required, as applicable.
• Successful completion of all required diocesan and school background checks, child protection clearances, and child-safety training.
• Completion of all required onboarding, safeguarding, and employment documentation.

Experience

• Previous experience working with preschool-aged children in a preschool, childcare center, school, or similar setting preferred.
• Experience supporting classroom routines, supervising young children, and facilitating age-appropriate activities is an asset.