The Substitute Teacher provides instructional leadership, classroom management, and continuity of educational programming in the absence of the regularly assigned teacher. The Substitute Teacher supports students with disabilities, ages 3 through 21, by implementing lesson plans, maintaining a structured learning environment, supervising classroom staff, and ensuring student safety and engagement throughout the school day.

This role requires flexibility, sound judgment, and the ability to support students with varying academic, behavioral, communication, social-emotional, and physical needs while maintaining established classroom routines and expectations.

About Us:

At Archbishop Damiano School, we believe in the power of education to transform lives. We are committed to creating an inclusive and nurturing environment for students with special needs, ages 3 through 21.

Our team of dedicated professionals is the heart of everything we do, and we are seeking Substitute Teachers who are patient, collaborative, and committed to helping students thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Working at Archbishop Damiano School provides the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while supporting students in a highly collaborative educational environment.

Responsibilities:

• Implement lesson plans, instructional activities, and classroom routines in the absence of the regular teacher.
• Maintain responsibility for the overall supervision, management, and operation of the classroom during the teacher's absence.
• Provide a structured, safe, and supportive learning environment that promotes student engagement, participation, and independence.
• Supervise, direct, and support paraprofessionals and other classroom staff to ensure continuity of instruction and student supports.
• Reinforce instructional goals, accommodations, behavioral supports, and classroom expectations established by the regular teacher.
• Reinforce classroom expectations and utilize positive behavior support strategies to maintain a safe, structured, and productive learning environment.
• Support students with varying academic, behavioral, communication, social-emotional, and physical needs.
• Respond appropriately to student behaviors, safety concerns, emergencies, and crisis situations in accordance with school procedures.
• Complete attendance, required documentation, and summary notes for the returning teacher.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all aspects of the role.
• Follow all school policies related to safety, emergency response, infection control, attendance, student behavior management, and professional conduct.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Valid New Jersey Substitute Credential required.
• Bachelor's Degree in Education, Special Education, or a related field preferred.
• Teacher of Students with Disabilities (TOSD) endorsement and/or Teacher of the Handicapped (TOH) certification preferred, but not required.
• Must be able to successfully complete a New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) Criminal History Background Check.
• Experience working with children required; experience working with students with disabilities preferred.
• Experience supporting students with autism spectrum disorder, developmental disabilities, multiple disabilities, behavioral challenges, and/or complex communication needs preferred.
• Ability to manage classroom routines and maintain a structured learning environment.
• Ability to supervise, collaborate with, and provide direction to paraprofessionals and classroom support staff.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and adapt to changing classroom and student needs.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and remain calm in challenging situations.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions.
• Demonstrated commitment to supporting student learning, safety, dignity, and independence.

Schedule: Per Diem/As Needed

Hours and workdays vary based on school coverage needs.

Pay: $25.00 - $30.00 per hour

Physical Setting:

Special education school

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Archbishop Damiano School is an Equal Opportunity Employer, drug-free workplace, and complies with ADA regulations as applicable.