Archdiocese of St. Louis·Union, Missouri
The Preschool Substitute Teacher provides a nurturing, safe, and engaging learning environment for children aged 3–5 in the regular teacher's absence by following established lesson plans and supporting early childhood development. This involves managing classroom routines, encouraging exploration through age-appropriate activities, and ensuring the overall well-being of the students.
The Archdiocese of St.
Louis Catholic Education and Formation features an expansive coalition of schools that allow our children to develop a sense of purpose and value, receive a higher quality education, join a welcoming community and feel secure in a a dynamic future.
We have a rich history, with its establishment 200 years ago by St.
Rose Phillppine Duchesne.
A coalition of schools serving over 50,000 students (PreK-12) within an 11-county area.
The educational experience provided to our students and their families is rooted in a higher calling from God to honor and celebrate the gifts He has given us.
A Preschool Substitute Teacher is responsible for providing a nurturing, safe, and engaging learning environment for young children in the absence of the regular preschool teacher. This role involves following established lesson plans, supporting early childhood development, managing classroom routines, and ensuring the overall well-being of children ages 3–5.
Job responsibilities
Follow the lesson plans or daily routines provided by the absent preschool teacher or school staff.
Use age-appropriate materials and play-based activities to support learning in early literacy, numeracy, motor skills, and social development.
Encourage exploration and creativity through storytelling, singing, hands-on activities, and guided play.
Adapt activities to meet the developmental needs and learning styles of young children.
Maintain a warm, respectful, and structured environment that supports emotional and behavioral growth.
Establish and reinforce classroom routines, including transitions, clean-up, and quiet time.
Use positive behavior guidance strategies to manage classroom behavior effectively and gently redirect misbehavior.
Foster curiosity, independence, and cooperation through interactive and play-based learning experiences.
Encourage participation and social interaction among children.
Provide emotional support, encouragement, and individual attention as needed.
Job requirements
High school diploma required. Coursework or a degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development preferred.
A substitute permit may be required, depending on state or district regulations.
CPR and First Aid certification preferred.
Prior experience working with preschool-aged children in a childcare, classroom, or daycare setting strongly preferred.
Patience, warmth, and a nurturing attitude toward young children.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to follow routines and adapt to the needs of a dynamic early childhood environment.
Basic understanding of child development principles and age-appropriate instructional strategies.
The Archdiocese of St. Louis Catholic Education and Formation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital, parental, veteran or disability status.
A high school diploma is required, though coursework or a degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development is preferred, along with prior experience working with preschool-aged children. Candidates must possess patience, warmth, strong communication skills, and a basic understanding of child development principles.
Market context
In Missouri, classroom teacher roles in early childhood settings are typically driven by ongoing demand for educators with infant-toddler experience and formal training in Early Childhood Education or a related field. These positions can be competitive because Montessori preparation and hands-on experience with children ages 0-3 are often required, along with standard benefits such as health, dental, vision, paid holidays, and paid time off. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your Montessori credentials and age-group experience before applying.