SUBSTITUTE TEACHER

POSITION GOAL
To provide a high-quality, safe, and consistent learning environment for students in the absence of the regular classroom teacher, by carrying out planned instruction and maintaining classroom routines, structure, and discipline appropriate for the grade level assigned (K-12).

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum of a High School Diploma or GED; Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Valid New Mexico Substitute Teacher License, or ability to obtain one prior to placement (per New Mexico Public Education Department requirements).
• Bilingual (Navajo/English) preferred.
• Have a valid driver's license.
• Ability to pass a background check and fingerprinting as required for employment in a school setting.

NAVAJO PREFERENCE
Preferential consideration for employment will be given to persons of documented Navajo tribal membership who meet the qualifications above, in accordance with the requirements of the Navajo Preference in Employment Act.

ADDITIONAL PREFERENCES

• Knowledge of the language(s), traditions, and culture of the Shiprock community.
• Knowledge of the physical, economic, and social environment of the Shiprock community that is likely to affect student progress in school.
• Knowledge of appropriate professional relationships with Native American students and parents.
• Ability to be dependable, punctual, and available on short notice.
• Ability to understand, speak, read, and write the English language.
• Ability to maintain harmonious interpersonal relationships on the job, with SASI staff, students, parents, and community members.
• Ability to determine when to refer problems and situations to a higher authority and the willingness to do so.
• Ability to follow a regular teacher's lesson plans and specific written instructions with minimal guidance.
• Prior experience working with children or in a classroom setting.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Complies with, supports, and efficiently carries out all responsibilities in accordance with SASI policies and procedures.
• Represents SASI in a professional manner that enhances community understanding of the program.
• Maintains a high personal standard of professional and ethical conduct.
• Interacts with staff, students, parents, and visitors in a welcoming and friendly manner.
• Works as a team member with all SASI staff.
• Protects the confidentiality of student and personnel information.
• Reports to the school office promptly at the designated time and checks in/out according to school procedures.
• Follows the regular teacher's lesson plans, schedules, and classroom routines as closely as possible; notifies the office or administration if plans are unclear, incomplete, or unavailable.
• Manages the classroom to maintain a safe, orderly, and productive learning environment for the full instructional day.
• Takes and submits accurate daily attendance.
• Supervises students during class time, transitions, and other assigned duty periods (e.g., recess, lunch, hallway supervision).
• Adapts instructional approach as needed for the grade level and subject area assigned, whether elementary, middle, or high school.
• Maintains appropriate classroom discipline in accordance with SASI's student behavior and discipline policies; refers serious behavior issues to administration as needed.
• Leaves the classroom, materials, and equipment in good order for the returning teacher, including a written summary of the day (work covered, attendance notes, and any incidents).
• Assures that classroom materials, equipment, and records are kept secure and free from unwarranted wear and tear or vandalism.
• Participates in required trainings, orientations, or in-services as scheduled by the supervisor.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Principal or designee.

AVAILABILITY
Substitute teachers are called on an as-needed, day-to-day basis and are not guaranteed a set number of assignments. Assignments may be for a single day or extended periods of coverage, and may occur at any grade level (K-12) or subject area across SASI schools.

EVALUATION
Will be evaluated in accordance with Shiprock Associated Schools, Inc. policies and procedures.

CERTIFICATION
The statements outlined in this position description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this position. This is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills that may be required.