JOB SUMMARY:

The Associate Teacher provides instructional support and classroom leadership in the absence of a licensed teacher. This position serves as the acting classroom teacher during extended teacher absences, including Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) leave, or when a teaching vacancy exists. The Associate Teacher is responsible for maintaining continuity of instruction, supporting student engagement, and ensuring effective classroom management under the supervision of school administration. The Associate Teacher is jointly assigned to two principals and may provide instructional coverage at either assigned school based on staffing needs and program requirements. The position requires flexibility, collaboration, and the ability to support a variety of instructional settings and student needs.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Provides daily instruction to students using lesson plans developed by the assigned teacher, grade-level team, or department.
• Develops and implements appropriate instructional activities aligned with curriculum standards when lesson plans are unavailable.
• Creates and maintains a structured, positive, safe, and inclusive learning environment.
• Manages student behavior in accordance with SECEP policies, procedures, and expectations.
• Monitors student progress and communicates student performance and behavioral observations to supervising staff and administration.
• Supports the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs of students.
• Collaborates with teachers, instructional assistants, related service providers, and support staff to ensure effective instruction and student support.
• Participates in grade-level meetings, staff meetings, professional development activities, and training sessions as assigned.
• Maintains accurate records and documentation related to classroom instruction and student participation as required.
• Follows established school schedules, procedures, and instructional expectations.
• Provides flexible instructional coverage at assigned schools under the supervision of either principal.
• Assists in maintaining a safe and orderly school environment.
  Demonstrates professionalism and maintains confidentiality regarding student and staff information.
  Performs related duties as assigned by the supervising principals or designee.

OTHER DUTIES:

• Assists with school-wide activities, programs, and student supervision as assigned.
• Supports classroom and school operations during staffing shortages or instructional transitions.
• Maintains professionalism while adapting to changing assignments, schedules, and instructional needs.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Minimum of 60 college credit hours required; Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Prior classroom, instructional, or educational support experience preferred.
• Must meet qualifications for substitute teaching or instructional support positions as established by the Virginia Department of Education.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of basic instructional practices and classroom management techniques.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students, staff, parents, and administrators.
• Ability to adapt to changing assignments, instructional settings, grade levels, and student needs.
• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented educational environment.
• Ability to maintain professionalism, flexibility, and confidentiality.
• Ability to support the mission, vision, and goals of SECEP.

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

The physical demands described are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Work is performed in the classroom and school environments across two assigned school locations.
• Requires standing, walking, bending, reaching, and supervising students throughout the school day.
• Regular interaction with students, staff, parents, and administrators.
• Ability to lift and move materials or equipment weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Position follows the established school calendar and work schedule.

Employment Terms:

• Full-time, non-exempt position.
• Ten-month position with assignment duration based on staffing needs and program requirements.
• Compensation based on the SECEP Associate Teacher or long-term substitute pay scale.
• Jointly supervised by two assigned principals for flexible instructional coverage.

EVALUATION:
Performance on this position will be evaluated in accordance with SECEP Board policies and administrative procedures governing personnel evaluation.