Teacher-Substitute-Preschool

Job summary

A Preschool Substitute Teacher is responsible for caring for, teaching, and supervising young children (typically ages 3–5) in the absence of the regular classroom teacher. The substitute helps maintain a nurturing, safe, and engaging learning environment that supports children’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. They follow the lesson plans and routines provided by the teacher or school administration to ensure continuity in the children’s daily experiences.

Job responsibilities

• Classroom instruction and activities
• Follow the daily schedule and lesson plans provided by the regular teacher or school administration.
• Lead age-appropriate learning activities that promote early literacy, numeracy, creativity, and motor skills.
• Use songs, stories, play, and hands-on activities to engage children in learning.
• Adapt lessons and activities to meet the varying needs and developmental levels of children.

• Classroom management
• Maintain a warm, positive, and structured classroom environment.
• Support routines such as circle time, snack, rest, and outdoor play.
• Encourage positive behavior through guidance, redirection, and positive reinforcement.
• Ensure classroom rules and safety guidelines are consistently followed.

• Student engagement and support
• Foster curiosity, cooperation, and independence among children.
• Provide individual attention and support as needed to help each child feel included and successful.
• Encourage social-emotional skills such as sharing, communication, and self-regulation.

• Safety and well-Being
• Ensure the physical and emotional safety of all children at all times.
• Follow all health, hygiene, and safety protocols, including handwashing, sanitizing, and emergency procedures.
• Supervise children closely during indoor and outdoor activities.
• Report any accidents, injuries, or concerns to the appropriate school personnel immediately.

• Communication and documentation
• Communicate effectively with staff and administrators regarding the day’s activities and any important observations.
• Leave notes or reports for the regular teacher about the children’s progress and classroom events.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions.

Job requirements

Education

• High school diploma required; coursework or a degree in early childhood education or a related field preferred.

Licensing/Certification

• Childcare or substitute teacher certification may be required depending on state and school regulations. CPR and First Aid certification preferred.

Experience

• Previous experience working with preschool-aged children in a classroom, childcare, or similar setting preferred.

Skills

• Strong communication and nurturing interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage a group of young children calmly and effectively.
• Flexibility, patience, and creativity in supporting a dynamic learning environment.
• Understanding of child development principles and early learning practices.

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.