Building Substitute Teacher

Job Description

Job Description

Building Substitute Teacher | Des Moines Prep 

About Des Moines Prep

Des Moines Prep is a new growing public charter school in downtown Des Moines committed to achieving exceptional outcomes for students: where they own and drive their learning and love their school experience. Our model combines rigorous college preparatory academics and a robust student-centered approach to instruction. We believe students learn best when they are known well, challenged deeply, and supported fully.

Des Moines Prep opened in 2025 and serves grades 8–9, expanding to serve grades 7–12 in the coming years. Our school emphasizes agency, purpose, and preparation for the future, giving students opportunities to explore college and career pathways and pursue their ambitions in a supportive, close-knit environment.

About the Role: Substitute Teacher

The Building Substitute Teacher provides consistent, reliable coverage for teacher absences, ensuring that learning continues smoothly without disruption. Their familiarity with the school's routines, students, and culture will allow them to step in seamlessly and support both staff and scholars. The Des Moines Prep Building Substitute Teacher will be the first person we call to help provide coverage for regular teachers when they are experiencing illness, maternity leave, or other absence reasons during the school year.  

About the Logistics

• Compensation :
  • $100 per half day of coverage (4 hours)
  • $200 per full day of coverage (8 hours) 
• Daily Hours: Teachers and staff are expected to be present for core hours of 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM during the school year from August to May
• Scheduling: Building Subs will engage in a two-step interview process that includes a screening call and a site visit with School Leaders. If selected to substitute teach with Des Moines Prep, substitute teachers would be contacted on an as-needed basis to cover for absences.
• Benefits : This is an independent contractor position. As such, traditional employment benefits such as health insurance and retirement contributions are not included. Compensation is structured to reflect the nature of the role.

Essential Responsibilities

• Implement the primary teacher's lesson plans and begin instruction right away
• Organize and prepare all necessary classroom materials
• Manage daily classroom routines, including taking attendance
• Review student work and provide feedback or grades as appropriate
• Foster a positive, supportive learning environment for all students
• Adhere to school and district curriculum guidelines
• Support student learning by reviewing material, clarifying concepts, and providing guidance
• Collaborate with fellow faculty and staff as an active team member
• Maintain instructional continuity until the regular teacher returns
• Deliver curriculum content effectively from the first day in the role
• Consistently demonstrate professional and effective teaching practices
• Apply a solid understanding of school policies and procedures

Education/Certification Requirements

Candidates must meet Iowa Substitute Teaching requirements and hold an active Substitute Authorization or Substitute License. Candidates will also be prompted to complete fingerprinting and background check via Iowa Fieldprint, with associated fees.

Qualifications

• Experience with in-classroom management and general teaching experience
• Experience as a classroom teacher or "regular classroom teacher" preferred
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a proven ability to maintain professionalism and tact in high-stress situations
• Organization skills that lead to seamless paper and resource organization within classrooms

Opportunity Education is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where all individuals are valued and respected.