Substitute Teacher

CEN-TEX FAMILY SERVICES INC; La Grange (TX); On-site; USD 26,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

CEN-TEX FAMILY SERVICES INC. is seeking a Substitute Teacher to provide temporary classroom coverage for Early Head Start and Head Start programs.

The role supports safe, nurturing learning environments and follows Head Start performance standards to aid social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. Responsibilities include implementing lesson plans, assisting across age groups, collaborating with a teaching team, and ensuring timely communication with parents and staff.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• CDA credential preferred (or willingness to obtain).
• Experience with infants, toddlers, or preschool children preferred.
• Strong communication, organizational, and collaboration skills.
• Ability to communicate in English, both written and verbal.

Responsibilities

• Provide temporary classroom coverage following established lesson plans.
• Support children’s development across social, emotional, physical, and cognitive domains.
• Observe children and respond to individual interests and needs.
• Follow Head Start program policies and safety standards.
• Communicate effectively with Lead Teachers and supervisors.

Skills

Strong communication

Organizational skills

Collaboration skills

English language proficiency

Education

High school diploma or GED

CDA credential preferred or willingness to obtain

Job description

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.

Child Development & Learning

Responsibilities:

• 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

Key Behaviors:

• Engages children at eye level using warm, responsive communication
• Encourages exploration, curiosity, and problem-solving
• Adjusts interactions based on children’s developmental stages
• Demonstrates patience and understanding of young children’s behavior

Health, Safety & Nutrition

Responsibilities:

• 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

Key Behaviors:

• Maintains constant awareness of children’s location and activity
• Anticipates potential safety risks and takes preventive action
• Follows emergency and reporting procedures without delay
• Models safe practices for children

Classroom Management & Behavior Guidance

Responsibilities:

• 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

Key Behaviors:

• Responds calmly and consistently to challenging behaviors
• Uses redirection and encouragement rather than punishment
• Maintains a structured yet flexible classroom environment
• Reinforces positive behaviors through modeling and praise

Relationships & Cultural Responsiveness

Responsibilities:

• 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

Key Behaviors:

• Demonstrates respect for diverse family values, cultures, and languages
• Uses inclusive language and practices
• Shows empathy and sensitivity to children’s individual experiences
• Collaborates effectively with classroom staff and support services

Professionalism & Ethical Practice

Responsibilities:

• 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

Key Behaviors:

• Arrives on time and prepared for assignments
• Demonstrates flexibility when placed in different classrooms or age groups
• Seeks clarification when expectations are unclear
• Maintains appropriate professional boundaries at all times

Communication & Team Collaboration

Responsibilities:

• Communicate effectively with Lead Teachers, Assistant Teachers, and supervisors
• Share relevant information about the classroom day as needed
• Complete basic classroom documentation when assigned

Key Behaviors:

• Listens actively and follows instructions
• Communicates clearly, respectfully, and professionally
• Works cooperatively as part of a teaching team
• Maintains a positive, supportive attitude

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

Education

• 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 Drivers 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
• Performs 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
• Performs other duties as assigned by Center Director