Sonnet Montessori·Waukee, Iowa
The Substitute Teacher steps in to support classrooms by ensuring quality care and education while maintaining a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment following established routines. Responsibilities include filling in for lead or assistant teachers, supervising children, supporting daily routines like meals and rest time, and assisting with parent communication documentation.
Description At Sonnet Montessori, we’re on a mission to put good humans into the world and leave it better than we found it. Our team creates warm, inclusive, and joyful environments where children, families, and staff can thrive. If you’re energized by purpose, connection, and meaningful work, you’ll love being part of a community that invests in your growth and celebrates what makes you exceptional.
As a Substitute Educator, you will step in to support classrooms and ensure children receive quality care and education when regular educators are absent. Guided by the Director and Administration, you will maintain a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment while following established routines and expectations. This role requires flexibility, strong communication, and a genuine love for working with children. Future part time and full time positions available!
Fill in for Lead or Assistant Educators as needed, following provided lesson plans and classroom routines. Supervise and engage children at all times, maintaining required state ratios. Support children’s daily routines, including meals, rest time, diapering/toileting, and activities. Use the parent communication app to assist with documentation of daily needs, observations, and parent updates. Foster a respectful, safe, and nurturing environment, modeling positive behaviors and guiding children with gentleness and consistency. Partner with staff to maintain classroom cleanliness, organization, and safety standards. Report accidents, incidents, or suspected child abuse immediately as required by law. Greet families warmly at drop-off and pick-up, supporting communication through the Lead Educators or Director.
What
You’ll
Need: High school diploma or GED (required). Ability to pass a background check (required). Flexibility to accept sub shifts and adapt to schedule changes; must work at least 5 shifts per month to remain active. Pediatric CPR & First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain within 90 days). Previous teaching or childcare experience preferred. Physical ability to lift/carry up to 50 lbs., sit on the floor, kneel, and supervise children indoors and outdoors in varying weather. Calm, professional demeanor and ability to work effectively under stress. Strong communication skills and commitment to teamwork.
Ongoing Professional Development & Growth Opportunities 401(k) Plan Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance Paid Time Off & Paid Holidays Employee Childcare Discount The starting pay range for this position is $17 to $20 hourly and is applicable for candidates who will be working in the following location[s] Iowa. This range is subject to adjustment for other geographic work locations. In addition to geographic location, Sonnet Montessori considers education, experience, internal equity, market demands, and other qualifying criteria to determine starting wages.
In addition to compensation benefits, Sonnet Montessori offers a variety of health and welfare benefits, based on eligibility, including medical and dental insurance, life insurance, and career development.
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or GED and must pass a background check, with a requirement to accept at least five shifts per month to remain active. Preferred qualifications include previous teaching or childcare experience, and willingness to obtain Pediatric CPR & First Aid certification within 90 days.
Market context
In Iowa, substitute teacher openings are often driven by day-to-day classroom coverage needs and can be competitive because schools look for dependable adults who can step in quickly and communicate well with students and staff. For this role, the faith and church-participation expectations are central, along with teaching ability and strong interpersonal skills. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your church alignment and prepare examples of classroom or youth-facing experience before applying.