PlayCV·Castro Valley, California
The Substitute Instructor facilitates engaging enrichment and educational activities while ensuring the safety and well-being of students at various school sites. They are responsible for maintaining program standards, managing student behavior, and collaborating with team members to support daily operations.
About PlayCV PlayCV is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of Castro Valley students by providing high-quality afterschool programs rooted in joyful play, hands-on learning, and whole-child development.
We partner with elementary and middle schools within the Castro Valley Unified School District to deliver meaningful enrichment experiences that include arts, science, music, STEM, recreation, social-emotional learning, and academic support.
Our programs support students in building confidence, exploring creativity, strengthening social skills, and forming meaningful relationships. We strive to create safe, inclusive spaces where students feel welcomed, valued, and connected.
Our work is guided by PlayCV’s Community Agreements, which shape how we show up for students, families, school partners, and one another.
About the Program The Full PLAY (TFP) is PlayCV’s afterschool program, operating from the last bell of the school day until 6:00 p.m. Each day begins with students checking in and receiving a nutritious snack. Students then rotate through enrichment classes, homework support, outdoor games, STEAM activities, and social engagement opportunities.
The TFP Substitute Instructor provides coverage for The Full PLAY program when regularly scheduled team members are absent or when additional staffing support is needed. This is a variable-hour, on-call position with no guaranteed schedule or minimum number of hours. Substitute Instructors may be contacted when coverage is needed at one of PlayCV’s school sites and may accept or decline available shifts based on their availability. When accepting a shift, the Substitute Instructor is responsible for reporting to the assigned site on time and providing the same high-quality supervision, engagement, and support expected of a TFP Instructor. This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy working with children, are dependable and flexible, and can step into different school-site environments and team dynamics with professionalism and a positive attitude.
Essential Job Functions Program & Student Experience Facilitate and support enrichment, recreational, and educational experiences that are engaging, age-appropriate, and fun for students. Implement supplemental enrichment activities, including arts and crafts, outdoor games, enrichment classes, art projects, and homework support. Guide student behavior and support social and academic development in alignment with PlayCV expectations and values. Develop, refine, and assist with enrichment activities such as classes, demonstrations, challenges, and interactive experiences to enhance overall program quality.
Safety & Supervision Ensure the safety and well-being of all students at all times.
Maintain appropriate student-to-instructor ratios in accordance with PlayCV policies and program guidelines.
Monitor and supervise students to ensure compliance with PlayCV rules and to prevent accidents or unsafe behavior.
Maintain and follow student schedules to ensure proper supervision and smooth program flow.
Ensure the safe, proper use and cleanliness of PlayCV and site facilities and equipment.
Be knowledgeable of and enforce all emergency procedures, safety protocols, and program rules.
Report, document, and communicate incidents, including accidents or rule violations, to the Team Captain as required.
Teamwork & Collaboration Work collaboratively with Team Captains, Team Coaches, and fellow staff to support program goals and student success. Communicate effectively with team members regarding student behavior, safety concerns, and program needs. Follow direction and guidance from leadership to ensure consistent program delivery and supervision standards.
Operations & Administrative Responsibilities Assist with daily program operations as assigned by the Team Captain or Team Coach. Support set-up, clean-up, and organization of program spaces and materials. Perform additional duties as assigned to support the overall operation and success of the program.
Community Agreements All PlayCV team members are expected to model and uphold our Community Agreements: Keep our students at the center of our decisions and actions Be open to feedback and operate with a growth mindset Be kind and respectful Own our attitude Support each other and hold each other accountable Respect everyone’s privacy These agreements guide daily interactions, decision-making, and overall site culture.
& Experience Have a high school diploma or equivalent GED Are creative, professional, and serious about providing meaningful after-school opportunities for youth. Dedicated to nurturing the development of the whole child. Have strong classroom management or group management skills. Demonstrate initiative while keeping the needs of the students in mind. Are committed to constantly engaging with students throughout the day. Have elementary and/or middle school aged classroom experience or have After School and/or Summer Program experience. Are fair, responsible, dependable, and consistent. Have patience, compassion, and kindness. Are flexible, proactive, punctual, and able to make a commitment to work throughout the entire school year. Bilingual applicants are a huge plus!
Candidate Profile The ideal candidate is an energetic, responsible, and student-focused team member who is committed to providing a safe, engaging, and positive experience for children. This individual enjoys working in a collaborative, hands-on environment and brings creativity, consistency, and strong supervision skills to daily program activities.
Physical Requirements Ability to stand, walk, and move continuously throughout program hours (including outdoor play and transitions between locations) Ability to actively engage with students through physical activities such as games, sports, playground supervision, and movement-based enrichment Ability to bend, kneel, crouch, sit on the floor, and get up from the floor frequently Ability to lift, carry, push, and/or pull program supplies, equipment, or materials weighing up to approximately 5–30 pounds Ability to visually supervise large groups of children and respond quickly to dynamic situations Ability to hear and respond to student needs, verbal cues, and emergency signals in indoor and outdoor environments Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions Ability to sustain focus and energy while supervising students for extended periods of time
Ability to obtain and maintain DOJ/FBI Live Scan clearance Proof of negative TB test within required timeframe Ability to attend required PlayCV trainings and meetings Ability to work assigned schedule and program calendar
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement PlayCV is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. Employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and organizational needs.
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or GED and have experience working with elementary or middle school-aged children. Strong group management skills, a professional attitude, and the ability to pass background checks are required.
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Market context
In California, support roles that work with children often draw steady interest because schools and programs need staff who can help maintain safe, inclusive environments. These roles can be competitive when candidates already have CPR, First Aid, and child abuse prevention training, plus experience working with diverse groups of children. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your certifications are current before applying.
