Substitute Teacher

CEN-TEX FAMILY SERVICES INC; Bastrop (TX); On-site; USD 11,637 - 16,575; Part time

Job summary

CEN-TEX FAMILY SERVICES INC is looking for a Substitute Teacher to provide temporary classroom coverage and maintain a nurturing environment for young children in Bastrop, TX. The role requires effective communication and collaboration skills, along with a strong commitment to supporting children's development.

The ideal candidate should have a high school diploma, preferably a Child Development Associate credential, and experience in early childhood education settings. Responsibilities include overseeing classroom activities, ensuring health and safety, and maintaining positive relationships with children and families.

Qualifications

• Previous experience with infants, toddlers, or preschool-aged children preferred.
• Knowledge of infant/toddler development and responsive caregiving practices.
• Ability to communicate in English, both written and verbally.

Responsibilities

• Support the developmental needs of infants and toddlers.
• Implement age-appropriate activities based on lesson plans.
• Maintain continuous supervision of children at all times.

Skills

Communication

Organizational skills

Collaboration

Education

High school diploma or GED

Child Development Associate (CDA) credential

Tools

CPR and First Aid certification

Valid Texas Driver's License

Job description

Job Details: Job Location: Bastrop, TX 78602 • Salary Range: $10.24

Job Summary

The Substitute Teacher provides temporary classroom coverage to support the continuity of high-quality early childhood education services for children enrolled in Early Head Start and Head Start programs. The Substitute Teacher maintains a safe, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate learning environment, follows established lesson plans and routines, and supports children’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development in alignment with Head Start Performance Standards.

Responsibilities

Child Development & Learning

• Support the developmental needs of infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children.
• Implement age-appropriate activities and experiences based on provided lesson plans.
• Encourage learning through play, routines, and daily interactions.
• Observe children and respond to individual interests, strengths, and needs.
• Engage children at eye level using warm, responsive communication.
• Encourage exploration, curiosity, and problem-solving.
• Adjust interactions based on children’s developmental stages.
• Demonstrate patience and understanding of young children’s behavior.

Health, Safety & Nutrition

• Maintain continuous supervision of children at all times.
• Follow health, safety, and sanitation procedures.
• Ensure classroom, playground, and materials are safe and developmentally appropriate.
• Respond appropriately to accidents, injuries, or emergencies.
• Maintain constant awareness of children’s location and activity.
• Anticipate potential safety risks and take preventive action.
• Follow emergency and reporting procedures without delay.
• Model safe practices for children.

Classroom Management & Behavior Guidance

• Follow established classroom routines, schedules, and expectations.
• Use positive behavior guidance strategies consistent with program policies.
• Support smooth transitions throughout the day.
• Assist children in developing self-regulation and social skills.
• Respond calmly and consistently to challenging behaviors.
• Use redirection and encouragement rather than punishment.
• Maintain a structured yet flexible classroom environment.
• Reinforce positive behaviors through modeling and praise.

Relationships & Cultural Responsiveness

• Build respectful, nurturing relationships with children.
• Support an inclusive classroom that reflects diverse cultures and abilities.
• Interact professionally and respectfully with families and staff.
• Support children with disabilities or special needs as directed.
• Demonstrate respect for diverse family values, cultures, and languages.
• Use inclusive language and practices.
• Show empathy and sensitivity to children’s individual experiences.
• Collaborate effectively with classroom staff and support services.

Professionalism & Ethical Practice

• Follow Head Start Performance Standards, licensing requirements, and program policies.
• Maintain confidentiality of children, families, and staff information.
• Accept direction from supervisors and teaching team members.
• Report concerns related to child safety, behavior, or health.
• Arrive on time and prepared for assignments.
• Demonstrate flexibility when placed in different classrooms or age groups.
• Seek clarification when expectations are unclear.
• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries at all times.

Communication & Team Collaboration

• Communicate effectively with Lead Teachers, Assistant Teachers, and supervisors.
• Share relevant information about the classroom day as needed.
• Complete basic classroom documentation when assigned.
• Listen actively and follow instructions.
• Communicate clearly, respectfully, and professionally.
• Work cooperatively as part of a teaching team.
• Maintain a positive, supportive attitude.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Child Development Associate (CDA) credential preferred (or willingness to obtain, if applicable).

Experience

• Previous experience working with infants, toddlers, or preschool-aged children preferred.
• Experience in a group care or early childhood education setting strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of infant/toddler development and responsive caregiving practices.
• Strong communication, organizational, and collaboration skills.
• Ability to communicate in English, both written and verbally.

Licenses & Certifications

• Current CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain).
• Background clearance as required by state and federal regulations.
• Valid Texas Driver's License.

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
• Frequent bending, standing, sitting on the floor, and active movement.
• Exposure to common childhood illnesses.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Performance Indicators

• Child Development outcomes show progress across domains.
• Compliance with all Head Start standards and state licensing.
• Positive feedback from family engagement surveys.
• Timely completion of assessments and documentation.
• Perform other duties as assigned by Center Director.