2026-2027 Substitute Teacher

Job Title:  Substitute Teacher                                              Wage/ Status: Exempt

Reports to: Principal                                                          HR Revised:  June 2024

Department: Assigned Grade Level                     

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY

Provide students with appropriate learning activities, instruction, and supervision by implementing the lesson plans as directed by the absent teacher, principal, or other responsible staff.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Certification:

• High school diploma/GED; College degree preferred.

Experience:

• Experience managing groups of students and providing instruction, or related work experience.
• Must complete the state-required fingerprinting and criminal background check.
• Must comply with TEA regulations, applicable federal, state, and local laws, school policies, and standards of the Professional Code of Ethics and Standard Practices for Texas Educators.

Required Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Knowledge of curriculum and instruction.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to instruct students and manage their behavior.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality pertaining to students, employees, volunteers, and the general operations of Westlake Academy.
• Ability to work cooperatively with others.

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

Instructional Strategies

• Implement lesson plans and instructional activities provided by the absent teacher or designated staff.
• Use appropriate instructional and learning strategies, activities, materials, equipment, and technology that reflects understanding of the learning styles and needs of students assigned and present subject matter according to the lesson plans.
• Work cooperatively with teachers to modify curriculum for students as needed or noted in lesson plans.

Student Growth and Development

• Be a positive role model for students; support the mission of the Academy.

Classroom Management and Organization

• Submit attendance reports.
• Implement a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social and emotional development of students.
• Manage student behavior in accordance with the lesson plans, Student Code of Conduct, and student handbook.
• Supervise students at all times.
• Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.
• Maintain a clean and orderly classroom and follow the classroom and school procedures as directed by the school.
• Leave notes or complete the approved substitute teacher report form daily.
• Report any accidents or incidents.

Communication

• Communicate in a friendly and positive manner towards students, parents, staff, and administrators.

Professional Growth and Development

• Participate in substitute training and activities to improve job-related skills.
• Comply with all state and Academy regulations and policies for teachers.

Other

• Follow Academy safety protocols and emergency procedures.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

Direct the work of assigned instructional aide(s) if applicable.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT

Tools/Equipment Used: Personal computer and peripherals; standard instructional equipment; [P.E. teachers: automated external defibrillator (AED)]

Posture: Prolonged standing; frequent kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting

Motion: Frequent walking

Lifting: Regular light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); may lift and move textbooks and classroom equipment

Environment: Work inside, may work outside; regular exposure to noise

Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress; work prolonged or irregular hours

DISCLAIMER

This position description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees to this job.