Head Start Substitute Teacher

This is a substitute teacher position.

Position:Head Start Substitute

Job Status: Grade, Step Depending on qualifications

Classification: Non-Exempt

Supervisor: Site Manager

Date of Last Review/Revision: 04/09/2025

The individual selected for the position must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, either with or without reasonable accommodation.

General Responsibilities:

All EOAC employees are responsible for supporting EOAC's mission and goals, respecting the confidentiality of all who come to us for information or assistance, and personally maintaining the dignity and integrity of one placed in a position of public trust. We are all responsible for improving the organization, communicating openly, and empowering each other to excel at our work. Maintain client/agency information confidentiality as required by State and Federal laws, appropriate regulations, and professional practice.

Job Summary

The Head Start Substitute supports the Head Start and Early Head Start classrooms by providing temporary coverage for classroom staff. The substitute assists in implementing a developmentally appropriate early childhood education program that promotes children's growth in cognitive, social-emotional, language, and physical development. Substitutes are responsible for following daily routines and working collaboratively with staff to ensure children's health, safety, and well-being.

Essential Functions:

1. Assist in implementing lesson plans and classroom activities based on the Head Start Early Learning Outcomes Framework.

2. Supervise and interact positively with children to support their developmental needs.

3. Follow established classroom schedules, routines, and procedures.

4. Maintain a safe, clean, and organized environment.

5. Assist with meals, snacks, and toileting/diapering routines, following all health and safety guidelines.

6. Communicate respectfully with children, families, and staff.

7. Support transitions in and out of classroom activities, including arrival and departure.

8. Observe and document children's behavior and development when requested.

9. Report any concerns regarding child development, health, or safety to the appropriate staff.

10. Follow all agency policies, state licensing regulations, and Head Start Performance Standards.

Competencies:

1. Understanding of child development and age-appropriate practices.

2. Flexibility and adaptability to work in different classrooms and with various age groups (infants to preschoolers).

3. Teamwork and collaboration skills.

4. Ability to follow directions and classroom routines.

5. Professionalism in demeanor and communication.

6. Cultural sensitivity and respect for diverse families.

7. Basic recordkeeping and observation skills.

Work Environment

1. Work is typically performed in a classroom setting.

2. Frequent interactions with young children in active, sometimes noisy environments.

3. May be required to accompany children outside for play or walks.

4. Exposure to cleaning products and potential communicable illnesses common in early childhood settings.

Physical Demands

1. Frequently required to sit on the floor, bend, kneel, crouch, or lift up to 40 pounds.

2. Must be able to move quickly to ensure child safety.

3. Ability to respond to children's needs and actively participate in play and classroom activities.

4. Visual and auditory ability to monitor the classroom environment and respond to child safety needs.

Other Duties:

· Assist the teacher/teacher aid in managing daily classroom operations.

· Help set up and clean classroom materials and activities.

· Provide one-on-one or small-group support during instructional activities.

· Support children with personal care needs as required, including changing diapers and wiping noses.

· Monitor rest and nap times.

· Assist with recordkeeping, attendance, or child observations when requested.

· Support family-style dining during meals.

· Follow the substitute checklist provided by the center or program leadership.

· Perform all other duties as deemed necessary.

Minimum Qualifications:

1. High school diploma or equivalent GED.

2. Experience caring for young children.

3. Must pass required background checks and health screenings.

4. Reliable transportation to travel to assigned sites.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) Infant and Toddler and/or Pre-K

2. Associate of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Development, Child Development or related field from an accredited college

3. Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Development, Child Development or a related field from an accredited college

4. One (1) year of full-time early childhood experience in a licensed early childhood program/center.

5. CPR & First Aide Certification

6. Previous experience in a Head Start or licensed early childhood program

Compensation: $18.75 per hour

Economic Opportunities Advancement Corporation provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

At Economic Opportunities Advancement Corporation, we are committed to fostering a workplace that values individual talent, professional excellence, and opportunity for all. We recognize that a variety of skills and experiences contribute to success in this role. If you believe your abilities align with the responsibilities of this position and our mission, we encourage you to apply. We are dedicated to investing in the growth of our employees and welcome applicants who are eager to contribute to our work serving the community.

I hereby affirm that all information provided in this application is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge, and understand that any deliberate falsification, misrepresentations, or omissions of fact may be grounds for rejection of my application or dismissal from subsequent employment.

I authorize the references listed on the previous page to give you any and all information concerning my previous employment and any pertinent information they may have, personal or otherwise, and release all such parties from liability for any damage that may result from furnishing same to you.

I understand as part of the hiring process, EOAC may obtain criminal history record information on individuals it intends to employ, as required by applicable federal, state, and local laws. This includes compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) (15 U.S.C. § 1681 et seq.), and Texas Labor Code Chapter 411 (governing access to criminal history records from the Texas Department of Public Safety). By applying for this position, I consent to a background check, which may include criminal history information, as part of the employment process. EOAC does not discriminate against applicants based on criminal history unless such information is directly related to the job, as permitted by law.

For nearly 60 years, the Economic Opportunity Advancement Corporations (EOAC) has helped families across the Heart of Texas overcome barriers and find hope. Our programs provide relief when it’s needed most — and create pathways to long-term stability. Whether it’s early childhood education, job training, utility support, or emergency assistance, we meet people where they are with compassion and dignity.