Network Substitute

Summary/Objective

A Substitute reports to the site Principal where they take an assignment, and is responsible for assisting in the classroom with all students, including special education students as needed. Substitutes work in collaboration with teachers and other school professionals and are crucial in creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment wherever assigned.  

Essential Functions

• Contribute to the creation and maintenance of a safe and nurturing learning environment that promotes emotional well-being and academic growth. 
• Foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment by promoting respect, understanding, and cooperation among all students, directing children in a positive and respectful environment.
• Monitor and observe the daily operation of classrooms for safety, positive interaction and productive educational activity.
• Assist in the preparation and organization of classroom materials, resources, and activities.
• Model appropriate social interactions with students and peers.
• Complete required reports related to accidents and injuries in accordance with school policies.
• Notify Teacher and/or Administration of unusual circumstances to include infectious disease, injury, illness and accident.
• Adhere to state and government regulations appropriate to school operational procedures.
• Clean and sanitize all manipulative materials and apparatuses often. 
• Maintain a neat and orderly classroom to include dusting, mopping and vacuuming as necessary.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.
• Direct classroom activities as assigned by the Teacher or Administrator. 
• Ensure all classroom supplies are sufficient and report additional supplies needed.
• Develop, prepare and implement lesson plans appropriate to children assigned under the direction of the Teacher or Administrator.
• Complete required annual compliance training when assigned.
• Document related operation problems or progress and report suggestions to the Teacher or Principal for improvement and possible corrective action.
• Communicate with parents/guardians regarding the child's daily activities. Relate child episodic circumstances as appropriate to other staff members.

Competencies

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with students, teachers, and other professionals.
• Empathy, patience, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of students with diverse abilities.
• Ability to follow and implement instructions from teachers, specialists, and Principals accurately.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical guidelines in working with sensitive information

Supervisory Responsibilities (if applicable)

• None

Work Environment

• Classroom Environment: This role often works in classrooms where conditions can vary. This may include exposure to noise, varying levels of student engagement, and the need to adapt to changing circumstances.
• Emotional Demands: Working with students who have special needs can be emotionally demanding but also incredibly rewarding. Special Education Teaching Assistants must remain patient, compassionate, and composed, even in challenging situations.
• Collaboration: Regular interaction and collaboration with teachers, therapists, and other professionals to implement individualized education plans (IEPs) and behavior intervention plans (BIPS) to support students effectively.
• Professional Development: Ongoing learning and development to stay updated with best practices in special education, behavior management techniques, and educational technology.

Physical Demands

The role of an Substitute involves various physical demands due to the nature of working with students. These demands may include:

• Mobility: Moving around the classroom, assisting students with mobility challenges, and transitioning between activities.
•  Sitting and Standing: Engaging with students, teachers, and activities while both sitting and standing for extended periods.
• Adapting to Student Needs: Quickly responding to unexpected situations, such as helping a student who is experiencing a behavioral challenge.

Safety Measures

• Safety Protocols: Following established safety protocols and guidelines to ensure the physical and emotional well-being of all students.
• Proper Techniques: Utilizing appropriate techniques for assisting students with physical disabilities or behavioral challenges to prevent injury to both students and staff.
• Health Considerations: Adhering to health and hygiene standards and being mindful of any allergies or medical conditions that students may have.

Travel Requirements

• Minimal or none

Required Education and Experience

• Associates Degree, 48 college educational units, or the ability to pass a paraprofessional exam
• If substituting as the lead teacher in a classroom: Emergency 30 Day Substitute Permit from the CTC

Preferred Education and Experience

• Montessori experience 

Compensation and Benefits

• Time Off: Sick leave

AAP/EEO Statement: It is the policy of California Montessori Project to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. This policy applies to all employment practices including recruitment, hiring, compensation, promotion, training, and termination.

Other Duties: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.