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.
- Assist 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 or 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
- Assist in maintaining accurate 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.
- Assist 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 trainings, 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 HIPAA.
- 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:
- Each Substitute Teacher must have qualifications that satisfy Federal Head Start requirements, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Article 47 regulations, and Universal Preschool Guidelines. Depending on education and certification, candidates may be classified as:
- Substitute I: A High School/ Local/IEP Diploma or GED is required
- Substitute II: Associate's 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: Bachelor's Degree (in any area) and a CDA credential or enrollment in a CDA program to be completed within 2 years.
- Substitute IV: 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.
It is the policy of Children's Aid to provide equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment and is dedicated to maintaining a work environment that is free from harassment and discrimination. Children's Aid will not to tolerate discrimination, harassment or retaliation on any basis, including race, creed, color, national origin, ethnicity, alienage or citizenship status, gender/sex (including pregnancy), disability, religion, source of income, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, familial status, caregiver status, military status, marital or partnership status, status as a victim of domestic violence, sexual violence or stalking, predisposing genetic characteristics, arrest or conviction record,
credit history, unemployment status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Children's Aid is committed to complying with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Children's Aid will conduct a prompt and thorough investigation of all allegations of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation, or any violation of the Equal Employment Opportunity Policy in a confidential manner and will take appropriate corrective action, if and where warranted. Children's Aid prohibits retaliation against employees who provide information about, complain about, or assist in the investigation of any complaint of discrimination or violation of the Equal Employment Opportunity Policy.
The incumbent is expected to work a schedule, whether in-person or hybrid, as determined by the department's needs to facilitate effective collaboration with the team. This flexibility is essential for maintaining seamless communication, fostering teamwork, and ensuring the smooth operation of the department's processes. The position's requirements are subject to periodic review and adjustment based on organizational needs and changes in work dynamics.
