Substitute Teacher

The Substitute Teacher provides dependable classroom coverage when a regularly scheduled teacher or assistant is absent. This position is responsible for maintaining a safe, welcoming, and organized learning environment; following the classroom's established schedule and lesson plans; and ensuring continuity of care for every child. The substitute works cooperatively with Edison administrators and staff and may be assigned to different classrooms or age groups based on daily needs.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Report to the assigned school on time and review the classroom schedule, lesson plans, student information, allergy alerts, emergency procedures, and dismissal instructions before assuming responsibility.
• Provide active supervision at all times, including during classroom activities, transitions, meals and snacks, toileting, rest time, indoor and outdoor play, arrival, and dismissal.
• Follow the lead teacher's lesson plans and classroom routines. Read stories, lead small- and whole-group activities, support learning centers, and engage children in age-appropriate experiences.
• Maintain required staff-to-child ratios. Never leave children unattended or release a child to an unauthorized person.
• Use warm, respectful, and developmentally appropriate guidance. Reinforce classroom expectations, encourage independence, support positive peer interactions, and redirect behavior calmly.
• Assist children with handwashing, toileting, meals, snacks, rest, dressing, and other daily care needs while protecting each child's privacy and dignity.
• Follow all health and safety procedures, including allergy plans, illness policies, sanitation practices, first aid procedures, emergency plans, and mandated reporting responsibilities.
• Keep the classroom clean, sanitary, organized, and ready for instruction. Set up and return materials, clean tables and learning areas, manage classroom trash, and restock basic supplies as directed.
• Record attendance and communicate significant events, injuries, illnesses, behavior concerns, or parent messages promptly to the Director, Assistant Director, or lead teacher. Complete required reports accurately.
• Use Brightwheel or other approved school communication systems only as directed. Protect student information and maintain professional confidentiality at all times.
• Support arrival and dismissal procedures, including unpacking and packing children's belongings, checking authorized pickup information, and assisting with smooth transitions.
• Accept reasonable classroom, break-coverage, and school-support assignments consistent with qualifications and the needs of the program.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must be at least 18 years of age and possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience working with young children is strongly preferred; early childhood education coursework or credentials are a plus.
• Must meet all Pennsylvania requirements applicable to the assigned substitute role and level of classroom responsibility.
• Must obtain and maintain all required background clearances, health documentation, mandated-reporter training, and other employment records before beginning work.
• Current pediatric First Aid and CPR certification is preferred and may be required based on assignment or school policy.
• Must be dependable, flexible, patient, nurturing, and able to communicate professionally with children, families, and coworkers.
• Must be able to follow written plans, accept direction, respond calmly in emergencies, and adapt to different classrooms and routines.

ROLE LIMITS AND SUPERVISION

A substitute may assume independent responsibility for a classroom only when the substitute meets the qualifications required for that role and is assigned by the Director or Assistant Director. A substitute serving in an aide capacity must remain under the direct supervision required for that position and may not independently supervise a group of children.

PHYSICAL AND WORK REQUIREMENTS

• Supervise children indoors and outdoors and move throughout the classroom and school for extended periods.
• Sit on the floor, bend, kneel, reach, stand, walk, and safely lift or assist children and classroom materials as needed.
• Respond quickly to safety concerns, emergencies, and children's physical and emotional needs.
• Work in an active early-childhood environment with frequent movement, noise, and changing priorities.

PROFESSIONAL EXPECTATIONS

• Follow Edison policies regarding discipline, confidentiality, illness exclusion, medication and first aid, child abuse reporting, emergency evacuation, attendance, dress code, technology, and professional conduct.
• Do not use personal phones while supervising children except during an emergency or with administrator approval.
• Maintain a welcoming atmosphere for all children and families and communicate concerns through the appropriate Edison administrator.
• Attend required orientation, in-service training, and staff meetings applicable to substitute employees.
• Notify the school promptly regarding availability or any inability to accept a previously confirmed assignment.

Pay: $18.00 - $25.00 per hour

Expected hours: 8.0 – 32.0 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Flexible schedule

Work Location: In person