Substitute Pre-School Teacher

Substitute Pre-School Teacher Position Overview The Substitute Pre-School Teacher supports the classroom Lead Teacher in providing a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for young children at Carden Conejo School. This role assists with classroom activities, daily routines, supervision, and preparation of learning materials while helping children develop independence, confidence, and positive relationships.

The substitute will work under the direction of the Lead Teacher and Administration to support the warmth, care, and distinctive character of the Carden experience. This substitute position is ideal for a patient, dependable individual who enjoys working with young children and contributing to a supportive school community.

Key Responsibilities

Classroom & Instructional Support Assist the classroom teacher with age-appropriate learning activities, creative projects, play, and classroom routines. Support children individually and in small groups under the teacher’s direction. Prepare and organize classroom materials, supplies, and activity areas. Help children follow directions, participate in activities, and transition between daily routines.

Assist with classroom setup, cleanup, and maintaining an organized, welcoming learning environment. Student Care & Supervision Assist with active supervision of children in the classroom, on the playground, and during transitions and school activities. Support daily care routines, including handwashing, toileting, changing clothes when needed, snack and meal times, and rest periods.

Encourage independence and age-appropriate self-help skills. Help maintain a safe environment by identifying and promptly reporting hazards, injuries, or concerns. Follow school procedures for student supervision, hygiene, emergencies, and incident reporting. Social & Emotional Development Build warm, respectful relationships that help children feel secure and included.

Model kindness, cooperation, respectful communication, and appropriate classroom behavior. Use positive guidance strategies consistent with the classroom teacher’s direction and school policies. Help children practice sharing, taking turns, expressing feelings, and resolving everyday conflicts. Communicate observations about children’s needs, behavior, and participation to the classroom teacher.

Teamwork & Professional Responsibilities Work collaboratively with teachers, preschool staff, and school leadership. Follow the classroom teacher’s direction and communicate promptly about student or classroom needs. Maintain confidentiality regarding students, families, and school matters. Interact professionally and courteously with families, referring questions about student progress or concerns to the classroom teacher.

Attend required orientations, training, and staff meetings. Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Completion of at least 6-12 units in Early Childhood Education or Child Development . Transcripts and, when applicable, verification of current enrollment required. Experience working with preschool-age children is preferred. Enthusiasm for working with young children and supporting their learning and development. Ability to follow directions, maintain consistent routines, and respond calmly to children’s needs.

Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with staff and families. Must successfully complete a Live Scan fingerprint background check and obtain required clearances before beginning work with children. Must complete required health screenings and school-required training. All required training time is paid.

Professional Competencies & Physical Requirements Patient, caring, dependable, and attentive to children’s needs. Sound judgment and a strong commitment to student safety. Flexible and willing to assist with changing classroom needs. Ability to maintain active supervision in a busy preschool environment. Regularly required to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and sit at children’s level, including on the floor.

Ability to move throughout the classroom, playground, and campus and respond promptly to children needing assistance. Ability to assist children with daily care routines and move classroom supplies and equipment. Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. Equal Employment Opportunity Carden Conejo School is committed to making hiring and employment decisions without regard to race, color, religious creed, age, mental or physical disability, medical condition including genetic characteristics, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal or state law or local ordinance.