Substitute Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

About This Role

Are you the type of teacher who is excited by experiential, play-based learning opportunities in a small school environment? Gardner School is looking for dedicated and creative substitute teachers to join our dynamic staff and help move the school forward as a leader in progressive education in Clark County. Gardner is a place where creativity, connection, curiosity, and courage are celebrated, and where learning is ongoing for students, staff, and families. Gardner School has two campus locations, our Preschool-6th grade Main Campus in the Mt. Vista neighborhood in Vancouver, and the 18 months-school age Country Friends Campus in Hockinson.

POSITION SUMMARY:

As a substitute at Gardner’s Country Friends Campus supports the classroom in providing a warm, engaging, developmentally appropriate environment for young children. This role is essential in implementing play-based learning activities, maintaining classroom safety, and nurturing positive relationships with children and families.

Substitute Teachers help maintain a warm, engaging classroom environment in the absence of the regular teacher. They support classroom routines, guide children through planned activities, and ensure a safe and supportive space for learning. Working closely with fellow team members, they bring flexibility, reliability, and a genuine enthusiasm for early childhood education. The ideal candidate is adaptable, collaborative, and ready to contribute meaningfully, even on short notice.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Support the classroom in implementing a play-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum in the absence or support of the Lead Teacher.
• Assist with preparing materials and classroom spaces for daily activities as needed.
• Engage positively with children, modeling respectful behavior and supporting their social-emotional development.
• Observe and interact with children, sharing any relevant insights with the teaching team.
• Help maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom environment, including participating in regular cleaning routines.
• Supervise children indoors and outdoors to ensure their safety and wellbeing.
• Follow daily routines such as transitions, meals, rest time, and toileting/diapering, maintaining consistency for children.
• Communicate appropriately with families under the guidance of the Lead Teacher or supervisor.
• Collaborate with team members to support a cohesive and caring teaching environment.
• Follow all DCYF licensing regulations and support the classroom’s Early Achievers participation.
• Perform additional duties as directed by the Lead Teacher or site supervisor

QUALIFICATIONS:

DCYF Requirements Before Hiring:

• Minimum Age: 18
• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Completion of required DCYF (DEL) certifications in MERIT
• Portable background check
• TB Test
• Completion of 30-hour Child Care Basics training
• Current First Aid and CPR certification (or within 90 days of hire date)
• Blood Borne Pathogens Training (or within 90 days of hire date)
• Food Handler Permit (or within 90 days of hire date)

• Compensation and benefits include:

  Wage: $17.13-$19 (dependent on experience)

  Position Classification: Non exempt (hourly)

  Hours: Varies