Preschool Worker Substitute

Description

Purpose:  To create a warm, nurturing, loving, and safe Catholic environment for the development of the whole child, where self-concepts are enhanced, independence is encouraged, and individuality is respected. 

Ministerial Character

The Pastor is the visible principle and foundation of unity in the parish of Emmaus Catholic Church which the Bishop has entrusted to him.  He makes Christ’s mission present and enduring in the parish.  In order to fulfill his mission, the Pastor employs suitable, chosen collaborators (clerics, religious, or lay people).  He shares with them his mission and entrusts various responsibilities to them.

Positions employed at Emmaus Catholic Church help to extend the ministry of the Pastor in particular ways as outlined in the job description.  Therefore, the employee in this position is closely connected to and assists the Pastor in the performance of his ministry and thereby engages in ministry for the Church.

KEY DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:  To SUPPORT the Lead Teacher in the following: 

• As an integral part of your ministry for the Church as carried out in this position, support and uphold the philosophy of Catholic ministry and the mission of Emmaus Catholic Church in both your professional and personal life.

• Act as a witness to Gospel values by modeling the teachings of the Catholic Church.

• Continuously grow in your ministry by participating in religious ceremonies, training sessions, and reflection activities as directed.

· To offer a program that meets the emotional, physical, intellectual, social and spiritual needs of both the individual and group in accordance with the policies and philosophies of the Emmaus ECEP program. 

· To interact with children and encourage involvement in learning activities through play (Intentional teaching) 

· To prepare a warm, safe, orderly, clean and appealing environment in which children can grow, explore, and learn 

· Incorporating religion DAILY 

· Incorporating music and movement DAILY 

· Establishing and maintaining good, clear communication with parents through your daily board, weekly notes and/or emails, twice a month with positive notes individualized for each child, twice a year at parent/teacher conferences, and as needed. 

· To observe, record, and report significant individual and group behavior (using this information to develop classroom development plans) 

· To use appropriate, consistent and positive discipline (mediation method and self-regulation method) 

· Attend staff and required meetings 

· Care for the classroom property and report necessary repairs 

· Help keep toys and equipment clean and in good condition (following Emmaus ECEP program guidelines for cleaning toys) 

· Helping to maintain a clean and neat classroom 

· Acquire 24+ hours (48 hours if less than two years of experience) of training annually 

· Receive Ethics and Integrity certificate from the Diocese 

· Abide by the policies in the Employee Manual and the guidelines of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services Minimum Standards 

Requirements

SKILLS: 

· Demonstrates strong and effective written and verbal communication skills with co-workers, parents and children 

· Must possess a knowledge and understanding of Developmentally Appropriate practices for the age of children in care – (Intentional Teaching)

· Understands and shows respect for confidentiality of co-workers, parents, and children 

· Punctual and dependable 

· Demonstrates sound judgment when planning for children’s safety and health 

· Respect individual differences in children and parents 

· Exhibits flexibility and sense of humor 

· Responds to and interacts with children in their environment at their level 

· Evidence of emotional maturity and stability 

· Evidence of sufficient security and judgments to handle a crisis 

STATE REQUIREMENTS: 

· Must be at least 18 years of age 

· Obtained at least a high school diploma or GED equivalent 

· CDA or bachelor's degree in early |childhood education (ECE) preferred but not required 

· Must complete 8 hours of pre-service training and an orientation before program start date 

· Must complete a background check 

· Must have a current TB test on file 

· Must complete an Affidavit for Application for Employment form as specified by TDFPS 

· Must be able to lift children up to 50 pounds 

Licenses/Certifications:

• Valid Texas driver’s license.

• Must maintain compliance with the Diocese of Austin Ethics and Integrity in Ministry (EIM) policies throughout the employment period.

Working Conditions:

• All employees of the Parish are engaged in ministry and closely tied to the Pastor in the exercise of his ministry and obligations to the church. 

• The Parish is an at-will employer.

• All buildings and vehicles owned by the Parish are tobacco free.

• Working in a fast-paced environment with priorities and plans that may change rapidly.

• Working on weekends, evenings, and some holidays may be required.

• Will be exposed to religious ceremonies, conduct, and speech, including Roman Catholic Christian prayer and liturgical celebrations.  

• Will be required to adhere to established dress codes and conduct standards.