Parker School is a vibrant learning community of 350 K-12 students nurtured by engaged educators and families in the community of Waimea on magnificent Hawaiʻi Island. With our 50th anniversary celebrations and a new preschool program launching in the fall, 2026-2027 will be another milestone year for Parker School!

The Opportunity

At Parker School, we cultivate an environment where each student is known, valued, and nurtured. We're excited to invite applications for preschool substitute teachers to join our vibrant educational community. Candidates will share our commitment to fostering an inclusive, positive, and academically engaging atmosphere. With a dedication to modern teaching methods tailored to diverse learning needs, our new team member will inspire a love for learning in every Parker student. This position offers the unique chance to shape young minds within the supportive Parker School ‘ohana and to grow as an educator dedicated to excellence.

Primary Responsibilities

The substitute teacher will provide a safe, nurturing and engaging learning environment for children ages 2-5. Responsibilities include:

Provide one on one or small group support to students as directed, including leading toddler circle time
Supervise children during classroom activities, outdoor time and field trips as assigned
Support an inquiry-based, play-based classroom by remaining flexible and responsive, adapting plans to follow and extend the emerging interests and ideas of the children
Prepare instructional materials, learning centers, copies, and classroom displays
Demonstrate flexibility within the daily routine and schedule, adjusting transitions and activities as needed to support meaningful engagement and hands-on learning experiences
Perform diaper changing and assist children with toileting while following all health, sanitation, and licensing regulations
Assist with meal time preparations and nap time support
Help maintain the classroom, including daily cleaning and sanitizing
Maintain a safe, organized, and a positive classroom environment
Demonstrate self-motivation with high work standards and attention to detail
Follow all Department of Human Services, Department of Health and Accreditation requirements and standards
Complete 10 hours of professional development annually as required by DHS administrative rules
Model professional behavior and collegiality at all times

Position Qualifications, Skills, and Abilities

Must be at least eighteen years of age
Orientation training at the preschool required
Experience working with children is required
Must meet state licensing requirements including Medical clearance, TB clearance, and annual background checks
Able to lift 35lbs
Ability to become CPR/first aid certified
Frequent bending, standing, reaching, and walking
Outdoor supervision in various weather conditions
An openness to feedback and improvement
A love of learning and love of school, and a willingness to support unique and unpredictable learning journeys
A healthy sense of humor and fun-loving spirit

What we offer

Pay rate: $22.66 per hour

To apply, submit a cover letter, resume, and three references at https://jobs.redroverk12.com/org/Parkerschoolhawaii

The School

Parker School promotes a joyful, engaged, and outstanding educational experience for all students. The school community cherishes Parker’s tight-knit and extended family feeling, in which each student is known, valued, and nurtured. Meaningful relationships between faculty and students are close, and Parker students experience deep comfort and support throughout the school. In Hawaiian, this all-embracing sense of family and community is ʻohana, a fundamental quality of Parker School. Academic excellence and outstanding programs in the fine and performing arts, and Speech & Debate, distinguish Parker School. Parker provides just the right mix of challenge and support to bring out the very best in each student.

Established in 1976 by community leaders, Parker School has been an essential educational resource for Hawaiʻi Island for over four decades and serves a diverse student body. Parker began as a ninth through twelfth-grade high school, adding grades seven and eight in 1977, grade six in 2004, and kindergarten through fifth grade in 2005. Today, Parker School is thriving, serving 350 students in kindergarten through twelfth grade. Parker School is a non-profit, college-preparatory, independent day school fully accredited by the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS), Hawaii Association of Independent Schools (HAIS), and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).

The Community

Parker is deeply rooted in the community of Waimea (mailing address Kamuela) on magnificent Hawaiʻi Island. At 2,700 feet (823 m), Waimea enjoys the beauty and moderate climate of “upcountry” Hawaiʻi. Waimea is the headquarters for two of the world’s largest astronomical observatories, located on Mauna Kea. The area is also rich in agriculture and ranching. Parker Ranch, the largest contiguous cattle ranch in the United States, has been based in Waimea for 160 years, and Parker School has deep roots in the paniolo (cowboy) culture of Hawaiʻi Island. The island’s top hospital, affiliated with The Queen’s Medical Center on Oʻahu, is in Waimea. Waimea also boasts a thriving performing arts and education non-profit, Kahilu Theatre. Every season, Kahilu Theatre presents world-class artists across a wide range of genres (music, dance, performance, family, etc.) from Hawaiʻi, the US, and beyond. The Kohala Coast, a popular tourist destination, is a short drive away.

More information about Parker School can be found at www.parkerschoolhawaii.org.

Preschool Substitute Teacher