PreK & Kindergarten Substitute Teacher

About Holy Family University

Holy Family University is a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth founded in 1954. The University is a private institution in the Catholic tradition with campus locations in Philadelphia and Newtown PA. The main campus is nestled in the heart of a historic residential neighborhood in Northeast Philadelphia that is vibrant and just minutes from the excitement of Center City. The Newtown campus is located in Bucks County surrounded by nature and a step away from parks, farmers' markets and great dining.

One of the best parts of Holy Family University is our welcoming atmosphere--and that's not by chance. Our mission centers on creating an environment that encourages all members to get to know one another, learn from one another, and experience a range of perspectives and worldviews. Our community is strong because of this.

Position Summary

Alpha House PreK & Kindergarten program at Holy Family University is seeking dedicated, dependable, and nurturing PreK and Kindergarten Substitute Teachers to support our early childhood classroom on an as-needed basis. Rooted in Catholic faith and values, our early childhood program provides a safe, structured, and faith-filled environment where young children can grow intellectually, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.

The Substitute Teacher will step into implement lesson plans provided by the lead teacher, maintain classroom routine and discipline, and foster a positive, supportive learning environment aligned with Catholic teachings.

Key Responsibilities & Essential Duties

Faith Integration & Catholic Values:

• Support and model Catholic values and principles throughout the school day.
• Lead or assist students with morning prayers, mealtime prayers, and end-of-day reflections.
• Encourage Christian virtues such as kindness, sharing, respect, patience, and cooperation among students.

Student Care & Safety:

• Actively supervise students at all times, including in the classroom, on the playground during recess, in hallways, and during dismissal.
• Attend to the social and physical needs of early childhood students with care and patience.
• Follow all school health, safety, and emergency protocol procedures.

Communication & Record Keeping:

• Leave detailed, professional notes for the lead teacher regarding completed lessons, student behavior, attendance, and any issues that arose during the day.
• Communicate politely and professionally with parents, colleagues, and school administrators as needed.

Non-Essential Duties/Responsibilities:

Any other duties as assigned.

Education & Experience Requirements:

• High school diploma or GED required; Associate or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, or a related field preferred.
• Prior experience working with young children (ages 3-6) in a school, childcare, or church environment preferred.
• Understanding of early childhood behavior and age-appropriate learning styles.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Work Environment:

• Operates in an office environment that may have frequent interruptions.
• The area is well-lit, temperature controlled and free from hazards.
• Noise level is generally quiet to moderate.

Physical Requirements:

• Communicates frequently, in person, over the phone, or via a computer.
• Hearing is needed for extensive telephone and in person communication.
• Regularly required to sit for long periods of time; use hands to finger, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms.
• Manual dexterity is needed in order to operate a computer keyboard.
• Ability to actively engage with young children, including bending, kneeling, sitting on the floor, and standing for extended periods.
• Ability to supervise indoor and outdoor play activities in various weather conditions.
• Operates standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines.

Certifications & Clearances

Strict Clearance Requirement:

• All required local, state, federal background checks and Diocesan background clearances (including Child Abuse History Clearances, FBI Fingerprinting, and State Police Criminal Record Checks) must be fully completed and in place prior to the start of work.
• Completion of Diocesan Safe Environment Training / Safe Environment Certification prior to employment.
• CPR and First Aid Certification preferred.

Non-Discrimination Statement

Holy Family University seeks to foster a welcoming and a healthy educational and work environment based on respect, the dignity of each person and the oneness of the human family. Holy Family University is dedicated to ensuring an environment free of discrimination or harassment of any kind, and promotes equal opportunity in its employment and education.

For more details on our commitment to nondiscrimination click HERE

We invite qualified applicants to view our open positions and apply directly at our career center by submitting a cover letter and resume.