Early Head Start Substitute Teacher

Overview

Pays $12.28/hour 

 

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.

 

Your Mission in Action

The Substitute Teacher provides temporary classroom support by implementing developmentally appropriate activities that align with Head Start Performance Standards and program guidelines. This role ensures a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment while following established lesson plans and classroom routines. The Substitute Teacher works collaboratively with staff to promote positive child development, social-emotional growth, and school readiness. Responsibilities include supervising children, assisting with daily routines, maintaining classroom safety, and supporting a positive learning environment. This position requires flexibility, adaptability, and the ability to effectively manage a classroom in the absence of the regular teacher. 

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
• Associates 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). 

Travel

This position may have the following travel requirements: 

• Minimal Travel (0-25%) – May be assigned to a primary location with occasional travel to other Head Start centers based on program need 
• Moderate Travel (25-50%) – Requires regular travel between multiple Head Start centers within the program to provide classroom support as needed 

Physical Demands & Work Conditions

• Frequent bending, kneeling, squatting, sitting of 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   

 

The phy