On-call Substitute

Definition of Classification

Under direct supervision of the Site Supervisor/Center Manager at the location to which the employee is assigned, the On-Call Substitute Teacher assists the teaching team in implementing all components of a quality preschool or infant/toddler classroom while collaborating effectively with staff and parents. The employee contributes to the success of the teaching team by following CAPC policies and procedures and maintaining compliance with applicable licensing and funding regulations.

Description of Duties

General

1. Represent CAPC in a consistently professional manner and model a commitment to the agency’s mission and values.
2. Promote teamwork among Early Education Services, other CAPC staff, volunteers, Board members, and others who contribute to successful program operations.
3. Develop and maintain mutually beneficial working relationships with stakeholders in support of CAPC’s vision, mission, and values.
4. Collaborate effectively with diverse staff, parents, children, and community members.
5. Maintain knowledge of and comply with CAPC policies and procedures, funding requirements, regulatory rules, and laws applicable to the program contracts and oversight agencies.

On-Call Availability and Scheduling Expectations

Minimum Monthly Availability: Provide availability for potential assignments on at least five (5) separate days each calendar month during normal program operating hours. Employees must identify days and times when they are genuinely available to accept assignments. Actual assignments depend on staffing needs; submitting availability does not guarantee work or a minimum number of hours.

Availability Addendum: Complete the On-Call Substitute Availability Addendum upon hire. Notify the supervisor promptly when ongoing availability materially changes, and keep the designated scheduling system accurate.

Response to Assignment Requests: When CAPC contacts an employee regarding an available assignment during designated program communication hours, respond as soon as reasonably possible, preferably within 30 minutes, and communicate whether the assignment can be accepted. This expectation does not require monitoring or responding to communications outside designated communication hours unless a separate arrangement is established.

Pre-Scheduled Availability: Update the availability calendar in CAPC’s designated scheduling system by 12:00 p.m. each Wednesday for the following Monday-through-Sunday week. Availability must accurately reflect the days and times the employee can work. Promptly communicate changes to previously submitted availability.

Accountability: Employees who do not maintain the required availability or repeatedly fail to follow scheduling procedures may meet with their supervisor to discuss the circumstances. CAPC may document the discussion and expectations for improvement. Continued failure to meet the requirements may result in corrective action, up to and including termination, consistent with CAPC policies and applicable law.

Operational Reason for Availability Expectations

On-Call Substitute Teachers help CAPC maintain adequate classroom coverage, meet applicable staffing ratios, support children’s safety and supervision, and provide continuity of care. Short-notice staffing gaps can affect classroom operations and CAPC’s ability to operate safely and in compliance with program requirements.

Program-Specific Duties

1. Follow regulations and requirements applicable to Community Care Licensing (Title 22), California Department of Education (Title 5), and Head Start Performance Standards, as applicable to the assignment.
2. Visually supervise children at all times and regularly complete face-to-name head counts, especially during transitions.
3. Monitor, observe, and report children’s behaviors to the teaching team.
4. Assist in implementing site- and classroom-specific supervision plans, including teaching staff responsibilities and zoning maps.
5. Assist during emergencies and emergency drills.
6. Know emergency procedures and implement the center’s plan for medical and disaster-related emergencies.
7. Implement educational curriculum through classroom activities based on developmentally appropriate practices and early learning standards.
8. Implement individual and group activities that engage children and encourage social, emotional, and cognitive growth.
9. Maintain a healthy classroom environment, including appropriate hygiene, cleanliness, and child safety practices.
10. Maintain a well-managed classroom and positive environment.
11. Assist in creating and maintaining well-organized interest areas, including blocks, dramatic play, toys and games, art, library, discovery, sand and water, music and movement, and outdoor play.
12. Work with the teaching team to provide a balance of child-directed and adult-directed activities, independent experiences, and small- and large-group activities each day.
13. Assist in establishing a consistent daily schedule, predictable routines, and transitions that maintain a smooth educational flow.
14. Promote opportunities for children to interact and cooperate, develop social skills, and demonstrate respect and appreciation for others’ feelings, rights, cultures, and backgrounds.
15. Assist with food service, including serving and cleaning for meals, snacks, and other activities, in accordance with CACFP policies.
16. Use healthy classroom practices and universal health precautions, including handwashing, appropriate glove use, timely diaper/clothing changes when applicable, and classroom cleaning.
17. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or GED and 12 units of Early Childhood Education (ECE).

• Before the start date, provide HR with a receipt confirming that the application for an Associate Teacher Permit has been submitted.
• Obtain and provide HR with the actual Associate Teacher Permit or higher permit within 60 calendar days of the hire date.
• Demonstrate a basic understanding of child development.
• Three Infant/Toddler units are required when working with children from birth to age three; six Infant/Toddler Development units are preferred.

Experience: At least one year of experience working with children ages 0–5.

Ability to: Gather and analyze data; organize and draft reports; read, understand, interpret, and apply pertinent rules and regulations; communicate clearly and concisely orally and in writing; communicate compassionately and without discrimination or judgment; establish and maintain effective working relationships; present oneself professionally; take initiative while accepting direction and seeking guidance appropriately; bring a high level of energy; and offer flexibility in schedule.

Technical Skills: Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Outlook and internet use, and the ability to use a copier and scanner.

Conditions of Employment

Background clearance: Employment requires applicable fingerprint and background clearances from the Department of Justice, the FBI, and CACI, consistent with funding-source and licensing requirements.

Immunizations and health clearance: In accordance with SB 792 and applicable requirements, provide proof of pertussis and measles immunizations unless a written statement from the employee’s physician identifies a medical reason not to vaccinate; provide influenza vaccination proof or a signed declination; obtain TB clearance, assessed every four years; and provide Hepatitis B vaccination documentation or a signed declination, consistent with Cal/OSHA requirements.

Pediatric CPR/First Aid: Obtain Pediatric CPR/First Aid certification within 60 days of hire and renew it every two years, as required.

Mandated reporter training: Complete required mandated reporter training within 90 days of employment and annually thereafter.

Automobile insurance: Maintain proof of current automobile insurance unless otherwise approved by a manager.

Funding and employment status: The position depends on continued funding and is at-will.

Physical demands: Duties may require use of hands to handle objects, tools, and controls and the ability to walk, sit, stand, crouch, squat, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crawl, reach, and repeatedly lift from floor to waist or move up to 30 pounds. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Equal Employment Opportunity

CAPC is an equal opportunity employer. CAPC hires and promotes employees without discrimination on any basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Community and Collaboration Statement

Striving to create an experience of value, connection, and belonging.