Horizons Greater Washington Inc·Washington, District of Columbia
The On-Call Substitute Lead Teacher delivers engaging, inquiry-based lessons to students in grades 1-8 when regular teachers are absent. Responsibilities include maintaining a conducive learning environment and supervising students during meals and field trips.
Description Horizons Greater Washington Saturday Academy On-Call Substitute Lead Teacher
About Horizons Greater Washington Horizons Greater Washington (HGW) provides year-round academic enrichment and summer learning opportunities for more than 400 students in grades 1–9. Through long-term partnerships with students, families, schools, and communities, we inspire the joy of learning while supporting academic achievement, social-emotional growth, and confidence.
The On-Call Substitute Lead Teacher has classroom experience and a penchant for cultivating students’ lifelong love of learning. The On-Call Substitute Lead Teacher covers Saturday Academy classrooms when teachers are absent. The On-Call Substitute Lead Teacher will deliver engaging, inquiry-based lessons in small classes of no more than 25 students. Additionally, On-Call Substitute Lead Teachers are supported by a Site Director. Candidates will be asked to work with students in 1st through 8th grade. If there are multiple teacher absences, the on-call substitute teacher may cover more than one class or subject in a day.
The On-Call Substitute Lead Teacher reports directly to the Saturday Academy Site Director.
00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. (or until student dismissal).
Program Location Bancroft Elementary School, 1755 Newton St. NW, Washington, DC 20010
The Saturday Academy On-Call Substitute Lead Teacher’s areas of direct responsibility include, but are not limited to, the following: Flex into classrooms when the regular Lead Teachers are absent throughout our Saturday Academy sessions. Engage approximately 15-25 students in lessons that promote active, student-centered learning around a theme As needed, supervise a group of 15-25 students on field trips, including on bus transportation Establish and maintain a classroom environment conducive to learning Ensure compliance to state and organizational regulations and policies Supervise students during daily meals and on field trips (as needed) Providing the best possible student experience consistent with expectations for academic rigor, student engagement, and effective teaching Performing other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective operation of the Saturday Academy Program Maintain reliable attendance and actively contribute to a positive team culture.
Required High school diploma or GED equivalent Teaching certification is strongly preferred; candidates with significant teaching experience or relevant content expertise will also be considered. Experience implementing effective classroom management strategies and fostering positive student behavior. Knowledge of child development, social-emotional learning, and strategies that support the development of focus, perseverance, empathy, self-regulation, and resilience. Ability to engage diverse learners through student-centered instruction. Excellent communication, organizational, interpersonal, and time management skills. Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team. Willingness to receive coaching and implement instructional feedback to support continuous professional growth. Preferred Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent experience Experience teaching elementary and/or middle school students in classroom or out-of-school time settings. Experience implementing project-based or experiential learning. Knowledge of instructional strategies that support multilingual learners. Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish. Pay Rate and Hours: $32.19 per hour.
Background Check Requirements Employment is contingent upon successful completion of required DC background screenings, including: FBI Fingerprinting DC Child Protection Registry Metropolitan Police Criminal Background Check National Sex Offender Registry
Please submit: Resume Brief cover letter describing your interest and relevant experience Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Environmental and Physical Conditions This position requires standing, walking, lifting up to 20 pounds, supervising children indoors and outdoors, and responding appropriately during emergencies.
Horizons Greater Washington is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, disability, genetic information, matriculation, source of income, place of business or residence, pregnancy, homeless status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
A high school diploma is required, while a teaching certification or bachelor's degree is strongly preferred. Candidates must have experience in classroom management and the ability to implement social-emotional learning strategies.
Market context
In District of Columbia, substitute teacher roles often reflect steady demand in schools that need reliable classroom coverage and support for students with varied needs. These positions can be competitive because employers may prefer candidates with substitute teaching experience, a bachelor’s degree, and experience working with justice-involved or opportunity youth. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then tailor your application to highlight relevant classroom and youth-support experience.