Building Substitute Teacher

Des Moines Prep; Iowa (LA); On-site; USD 18,000 - 37,000; Part time

Job summary

Des Moines Prep is seeking a Building Substitute Teacher to provide reliable coverage for teacher absences and ensure continuity of learning in a high-demand charter school setting. The role relies on familiarity with school routines and culture to support both staff and scholars as needed throughout the school year.

The position offers two-step screening and a site visit with School Leaders, with opportunities to substitute for illness, leave, or other absences.

Qualifications

• In-classroom management and general teaching experience are required or preferred.
• Strong interpersonal skills and professionalism in high-stress situations.
• Ability to organize resources and maintain classroom materials efficiently.
• Familiarity with school policies and curriculum guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Implement the primary teacher’s lesson plans and begin instruction immediately.
• Organize and prepare all necessary classroom materials.
• Manage daily classroom routines, including taking attendance.
• Review student work and provide feedback or grades as appropriate.
• Foster a positive, supportive learning environment for all students.
• Adhere to school and district curriculum guidelines.
• Collaborate with fellow faculty and staff as an active team member.
• Maintain instructional continuity until the regular teacher returns.

Skills

In-classroom management

Teaching experience

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Education

Substitute Authorization or License

Job description

Building Substitute Teacher | Des Moines Prep

About Des Moines Prep

Des Moines Prep is a new growing public charter school in downtown Des Moines committed to achieving exceptional outcomes for students: where they own and drive their learning and love their school experience. Our model combines rigorous college preparatory academics and a robust student-centered approach to instruction. We believe students learn best when they are known well, challenged deeply, and supported fully.

Des Moines Prep opened in 2025 and serves grades 8-9, expanding to serve grades 7-12 in the coming years. Our school emphasizes agency, purpose, and preparation for the future, giving students opportunities to explore college and career pathways and pursue their ambitions in a supportive, close-knit environment.

About the Role: Substitute Teacher

The Building Substitute Teacher provides consistent, reliable coverage for teacher absences, ensuring that learning continues smoothly without disruption. Their familiarity with the school’s routines, students, and culture will allow them to step in seamlessly and support both staff and scholars. The Des Moines Prep Building Substitute Teacher will be the first person we call to help provide coverage for regular teachers when they are experiencing illness, maternity leave, or other absence reasons during the school year.

About the Logistics

• Compensation :

  • $100 per half day of coverage (4 hours)
  • $200 per full day of coverage (8 hours)

• Daily Hours: Teachers and staff are expected to be present for core hours of 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM during the school year from August to May

• Scheduling: Building Subs will engage in a two-step interview process that includes a screening call and a site visit with School Leaders. If selected to substitute teach with Des Moines Prep, substitute teachers would be contacted on an as-needed basis to cover for absences.

Essential Responsibilities

• Implement the primary teacher’s lesson plans and begin instruction right away
• Organize and prepare all necessary classroom materials
• Manage daily classroom routines, including taking attendance
• Review student work and provide feedback or grades as appropriate
• Foster a positive, supportive learning environment for all students
• Adhere to school and district curriculum guidelines
• Support student learning by reviewing material, clarifying concepts, and providing guidance
• Collaborate with fellow faculty and staff as an active team member
• Maintain instructional continuity until the regular teacher returns
• Deliver curriculum content effectively from the first day in the role
• Consistently demonstrate professional and effective teaching practices
• Apply a solid understanding of school policies and procedures

Education/Certification Requirements

Candidates must meet Iowa Substitute Teaching requirements and hold an active Substitute Authorization or Substitute License. Candidates will also be prompted to complete fingerprinting and background check via Iowa Fieldprint, with associated fees.

Qualifications

• Experience with in-classroom management and general teaching experience
• Experience as a classroom teacher or "regular classroom teacher" preferred
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a proven ability to maintain professionalism and tact in high-stress situations
• Organization skills that lead to seamless paper and resource organization within classrooms

Non-Discrimination Statement

Opportunity Education is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where all individuals are valued and respected.