HELP – NEW MEXICO, INC.

Job Description

Job Title:Substitute

Division:Office of Learning & Academic Opportunity

Reports To:Center Manager/Lead Teacher

FLSA Status:Non-Exempt

Prepared By:Human Resources Administrator

Prepared Date:December 21, 2001

Approved By:Vice-President

Approved Date:December 28, 2001

Revised Date: February 8, 2016

SUMMARY

The substitute is responsible for temporarily replacing teaching staff in the classroom on an as-needed basis in their absence. Assists with daily activities of the classroom and is responsible for meeting all safety and educational requirements necessary in meeting the needs of children and families served. Program activities must be carried out in conformation with all local, state and federal regulations also must adhere to HELP-New Mexico and program policies and procedures.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned. Please note: this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. The following are the functions you will be evaluated on.

  • Assist the regular teachers in delivering a developmentally appropriate early childhood curriculum. For example, set up activities and materials, and provide appropriate interaction and guidance with children during the time of care.
  • Assures the health, safety and educational needs of children and follows classroom policies and procedures. For example, assist children with tooth brushing, hand washing and toileting; move around the classroom to engage with children and provide supervision at all times; prepare meals and model good eating habits; and assure that any child’s specific medical and nutritional instructions are followed.
  • Assist in the planning and supervision of children’s activities that meet their emotional, cognitive, social and physical needs. For example, help children solve problems by getting down on their eye level, try to anticipate challenging behaviors before they occur, and assist the teachers in comforting and nurturing children.
  • Model appropriate behavior using positive guidance techniques at all times. For example, instead of saying “no” or “don’t do that” use redirection techniques such as “you need to…” or “I wonder what would happen if you…” or distract or redirect with another toy, activity or story.
  • Assist with the maintenance of a healthy and safe environment in all classroom activities. For example, assist with the clean-up of children’s activities and meals, assure that the room and outside playground are free from hazardous objects or materials, and provide consistent supervision to assure children remain in the group both inside and outdoors.
  • Help parents to feel welcome and encourage their involvement. For example, greet parents when they arrive and introduce yourself, as well as when parents pick-up their child.
  • Participate in substitute teacher trainings coordinated by the program or within the community
  • Conduct self in a professional manner; upholding the core values, mission and vision of the program and agency. Adhere to the adopted professional code of ethics.
  • Participate as a team member in the obtainment of program and division objectives
  • Abide by the Confidentiality Statement at all times.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

None

QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Some experience working/volunteering in an early childhood setting

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

None

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Valid Drivers’ License
  • First Aid/CPR Certified
  • TB Questionnaire
  • Initial Physical Examination
  • Criminal Records Check
  • Bilingual Preferred

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand. The employee is occasionally required to walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and the requirements of the job change.

I have read and understand the responsibilities of this job position. Further, I acknowledge and will adhere to the confidentiality statement.