Reports directly to: Director of the Early Learning Center and Lower School
Department: Early Learning Center (ELC) and Lower School (LS)
Position type: Full-time Exempt, 10-month contract
Location: Antilles School, 7280 Frenchman Bay, St. Thomas, VI 00802
The Early Learning Center and Lower School Substitute plays an important role in supporting continuity of instruction, classroom routines, and student well-being in the Early Learning Center and Lower School. This role provides flexible classroom coverage and instructional support across grade levels as needed, helping students remain engaged, safe, and supported when a lead teacher is absent or additional support is required.
The substitute teacher implements provided lesson plans, maintains age-appropriate classroom routines, supports positive behavior and social-emotional development, and collaborates with colleagues to ensure a smooth and productive school day. The role may include teaching core academic subjects, supervising students during transitions and activities, and assisting in other classrooms or areas based on school needs.
Ideal candidates are reliable, flexible, child-centered, and comfortable working with elementary-aged students across a range of learning styles, abilities, and developmental needs. They bring a collaborative spirit, strong communication skills, cultural competence, and a commitment to the school's mission of fostering excellence, diversity, and community.
Core Responsibilities
Instructional & Classroom Support
Implement provided lesson plans and instructional activities in reading, writing, spelling, grammar, math, science, social studies, and other assigned subject areas
Maintain classroom routines, expectations, and learning structures established by the lead teacher
Support student engagement, participation, and understanding during whole-group, small-group, and independent learning activities
Differentiate support when appropriate to meet a range of student learning styles, abilities, and developmental needs
Leave clear notes for the lead teacher regarding instruction completed, student needs, and any notable classroom events
Student Support, Care & Safety
Create and maintain a safe, respectful, child-friendly classroom environment
Support students' social-emotional development, character development, and positive peer relationships throughout the school day
Use age-appropriate classroom management strategies that promote belonging, responsibility, and respect
Supervise students during classroom activities, transitions, recess, lunch, and other assigned duties
Follow school procedures for student safety, supervision, confidentiality, and reporting concerns
Collaboration & Flexibility
Work collaboratively with grade-level teachers, specialists, administrators, and support staff to meet student and classroom needs
Communicate professionally and promptly with faculty and administrators regarding classroom needs or concerns
Provide support in other classrooms, grade levels, duties, or program areas as assigned
Adapt to changing schedules, classroom assignments, and student needs with professionalism and good judgment
Community & Professionalism
Model respectful, inclusive, and culturally competent interactions with students, families, and colleagues
Demonstrate reliability, punctuality, preparedness, and active engagement throughout the school day
Maintain professional boundaries and appropriate confidentiality in all student and school matters
Participate in faculty meetings, professional development, school events, and other responsibilities as assigned
Promote the School, its mission, its philosophy, and its programs
Perform other duties as assigned
Qualifications & Skills:
Bachelor's degree required; degree in elementary education, child development, or a related field preferred
Previous successful classroom, substitute teaching, or elementary education experience preferred
Strong understanding of child development, elementary pedagogy, play-based and project-based learning, and current best practices in education
Ability to implement lesson plans, manage classroom routines, and support student learning across core subject areas
Commitment to inclusive classroom practices, cultural competence, and the social-emotional growth of each child
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Collaborative, flexible, detail-oriented, and self-directed professional approach
Positive work ethic and willingness to support students, colleagues, and school needs across the Lower School
Proficiency with educational technology, Google Workspace, and digital tools used to support instruction and communication
Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team in a dynamic, diverse school environment
Antilles School is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our community. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and school needs. Antilles School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or any other protected status under federal, state, or local laws.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process due to a disability may contact us to request assistance. Information received related to accommodation will be treated confidentially.
This job posting is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Antilles School reserves the right to modify job descriptions or job postings at any time, as business needs may dictate.