Substitute Teacher Job Description
What Does a Substitute Teacher Do?
A substitute teacher is a person responsible for providing temporary instruction and supervision in the absence of a regular teacher. They are typically responsible for following plans left by the regular teacher, monitoring student behavior, and providing instruction to students.
Substitute Teacher Job Description Example
Boston Bright Minds is looking to hire a reliable and caring Substitute Teacher to join our learning environment. This position will provide relief coverage to classroom teachers and provide educational assistance to our students in the absence of the regular classroom teacher.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Follow daily lesson plans as provided by the regular classroom teacher
- Supervise students during all activities throughout the day
- Provide a safe and nurturing environment for students
- Maintain appropriate disciplinary procedures
- Assist with instruction and prepare materials for lesson plans
- Monitor students for understanding and assist as needed
- Participate in educational games and activities
- Provide basic first aid as needed
Work Hours and Benefits:
This is a part-time position with variable hours. Hours are determined by classroom teacher absence and our school calendar.
Benefits include:
- Competitive compensation
- Paid holidays and vacation days
- Paid sick leave
- 401(k) retirement plan
Training and Education:
- Previous experience teaching in a pre-elementary school setting
- Valid Massachusetts state teaching license
- Knowledge of best practices and developmentally appropriate activities for elementary students
- The ability to maintain order and manage classroom behavior
- Patience and flexibility with different students
- Strong organizational and communication skills
Training and Education: Applicants must have a valid Massachusetts state teaching license and knowledge of best practices in Elementary Education. Any other training or certifications related to the position is preferred.
If you are a qualified and experienced Substitute Teacher, please apply today and join our team!
What to Include on a Substitute Teacher Resume or Job Posting
Common substitute teacher responsibilities
- Following lesson plans and instructions provided by the regular teacher.
- Maintaining a safe and orderly classroom environment.
- Monitoring student behavior and intervening when necessary.
- Assigning and grading classwork and homework.
- Keeping accurate records of student attendance and performance.
- Communicating with students, parents, and school staff.
- Utilizing appropriate teaching methods and materials.
- Adapting to different learning styles and abilities.
- Providing individualized instruction and support.
- Assisting with special projects and activities.
Qualities & traits
- Patience: Substitute teachers must be able to remain patient and calm when faced with challenging situations.
- Flexibility: Substitute teachers must be able to adapt quickly to changing environments and unexpected events.
- Organization: Substitute teachers must be able to stay organized and manage their time efficiently.
- Communication: Substitute teachers must be able to communicate effectively with students, faculty, and administrators.
- Knowledge: Substitute teachers must have a basic understanding of the subject matter they are teaching.
- Creativity: Substitute teachers must be able to think of creative ways to engage students and keep them interested in the lesson.
- Respect: Substitute teachers must respect the students and their needs, as well as the school’s policies and procedures.
- Professionalism: Substitute teachers must maintain a professional demeanor and attitude at all times.
What a typical day looks like for a substitute teacher
A substitute teacher typically spends their day managing a classroom and filling in for the regular teacher. They often arrive early to review any instructions from the regular teacher and will start by introducing themselves to their students. During the day, a substitute teacher is responsible for teaching the lesson plans for that day, maintaining a safe and organized classroom environment, monitoring student behavior, and providing support for any special education or English language learners. At the end of the day, the substitute teacher will tidy up the classroom and report back to the school about their observations.
Compatible jobs and work history
Substitute teaching is an incredibly versatile role, and can accommodate applicants from a variety of backgrounds. Many people with experience in teaching, caregiving, customer service, and administrative roles can find success as substitute teachers. All of these roles require skills like communication, problem-solving, organization, and multitasking, which can easily be transferred to the classroom. While not all substitute teachers have direct teaching experience, below are a few job titles that have comparable skills and traits to substitute teaching:
- Daycare or After-School Care Provider
- Tutor
- Coaching or Mentoring Position
- Camp Counselor
- Youth Program Facilitator
- Education Program Coordinator
- Retail or Customer Service Representative
- Social Services Worker
- Human Resources Professional
- Office Administrator
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