Substitute Teacher (Ohana) - job 1 of 2

The Substitute Teacher at Ohana in Raleigh, NC, plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and engagement of children. Key responsibilities include managing the physical care of each child, implementing Montessori and RIE techniques, and adapting to the ever-changing demands of the classroom. You'll also communicate important updates to co-teachers and maintain a clean and organized environment, ensuring a nurturing space for growth.

To qualify for the Substitute Teacher position at Ohana, candidates must be at least 18 years old and hold a High School diploma or GED. Additionally, a willingness to learn Montessori/RIE practices is essential. Specific state requirements must also be met, along with the completion of mandatory trainings such as CPR/First Aid and background checks.

Substitute Teachers at Ohana typically work on a part-time basis, with hours ranging from 10 to 30 hours a month. This flexible schedule allows for on-call and last-minute opportunities, perfect for those balancing other commitments while making a positive impact in children's lives.

Ohana provides extensive training for its Substitute Teachers, including CPR and First Aid Certification, ITS-SIDS Safe Sleep Training, and training on Recognizing and Responding to Suspicions of Child Maltreatment. These trainings ensure that you are well-equipped to provide the highest level of care and safety for the children.

Yes! Substitute Teachers at Ohana have the potential for advancement to full-time teaching positions. If you demonstrate commitment and a passion for education, there may be future opportunities available to grow within the organization.

When adapting my teaching style as a Substitute Teacher, I focus on understanding each child's unique learning style and needs. By using varied approaches—such as hands-on activities for kinesthetic learners or visual aids for those who respond well to images—I create an inclusive environment. It's essential to communicate with co-teachers beforehand to gain insights into the children’s preferences.

Ensuring safety and well-being starts with maintaining a vigilant and responsive attitude. I use consistent visual supervision, adhere to established classroom procedures, and integrate positive discipline strategies to guide behavior. Regular communication with co-teachers and families also plays a significant role in fostering a safe environment.

In my experience with Montessori and RIE practices, I have focused on creating child-centered learning environments that promote independence. I embrace the philosophy that children learn best through exploration, providing them with meaningful choices and designing activities that encourage curiosity and creativity.

Constructive feedback is invaluable for growth. When I receive feedback, I approach it with an open mind, considering it as a learning opportunity rather than criticism. I reflect on the suggestions and implement appropriate changes in my practice, all while maintaining flexibility in adapting my approach according to the dynamic classroom environment.

To quickly establish rapport with children, I focus on creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Simple methods include using their names, engaging in light-hearted conversation, and showing genuine interest in their activities. Building trust from the outset encourages children to feel comfortable and valued.

My motivation stems from a deep passion for fostering growth and learning in young children. I find immense joy in witnessing those 'aha' moments when they discover something new. Being part of their developmental journey and encouraging curiosity fuels my commitment to early childhood education.

When facing challenging behavior, I always aim to understand the underlying reasons. I apply positive discipline strategies, redirecting the child’s attention and offering alternative behaviors. It's important to model appropriate reactions and reinforce positive behaviors with praise, which helps foster a constructive learning environment.

The most important quality for a Substitute Teacher is adaptability. Working effectively in a constantly changing environment requires flexibility, creativity, and a positive mindset. Being open to various teaching styles and responsive to children's needs is crucial to enhancing their learning experience.

I stay current with educational practices by actively seeking professional development opportunities, attending workshops, and engaging with educational communities online. I also read relevant literature and participate in training that focuses on enhancing my skills in early childhood education.

My long-term career goal is to excel in early childhood education, ultimately progressing into a full-time teaching role. I aspire to deepen my expertise in Montessori and RIE practices while contributing to creating nurturing learning environments that support children's holistic development.