Lead Teacher/Director Qualified

Lead Teacher/Director Qualified Pearl Street Kids Academy Belvidere, IL Job Details Full-time $18 - $20 an hour 4 days ago Benefits Paid time off Qualifications Teacher leader experience Outdoor work Family collaboration in education Bachelor's degree Organizational skills Working with families Leadership Early Childhood Education Parent-teacher conferences (communication methods) Full Job Description Job Summary Pearl Street Kids Academy is seeking a dedicated, compassionate, and experienced Lead Teacher who is Director Qualified under Illinois DCFS licensing standards . The Lead Teacher will be responsible for creating and implementing developmentally appropriate curriculum, maintaining a safe and nurturing learning environment, supervising classroom staff, building positive relationships with families, and ensuring compliance with all Illinois DCFS regulations. This position plays a key leadership role in supporting children's growth, school readiness, and overall well-being. The Lead Teacher, who is Director Qualified, will assume the responsibilities of the Director or Assistant Director on any day in which one or both are absent, ensuring the continued smooth operation of the center and compliance with all DCFS requirements. Essential Responsibilities Plan and implement age-appropriate curriculum that supports children's cognitive, social-emotional, physical, and language development. Maintain a safe, healthy, and engaging classroom environment. Ensure compliance with all Illinois DCFS licensing standards and center policies. Supervise, mentor, and support assistant teachers and classroom aides. Complete daily observations, assessments, and developmental documentation. Communicate regularly with families regarding children's progress, milestones, and concerns. Promote positive behavior guidance techniques and model appropriate interactions. Conduct classroom activities that encourage learning through exploration and play. Maintain accurate attendance, incident reports, and child records. Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and training opportunities. Ensure proper sanitation, health, and safety practices are followed at all times. Assist with center-wide events, family engagement activities, and licensing visits. Serve as a leader and role model for staff and children. Qualifications Applicants must meet Illinois DCFS Director Qualification requirements , including: Required Must be at least 21 years of age. Meet Illinois DCFS qualifications for a Child Care Director. Bachelor's degree or higher in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Elementary Education, or a related field with required early childhood coursework. Minimum experience requirements as outlined by Illinois DCFS licensing standards. Knowledge of Illinois Early Learning and Development Standards (IELDS). Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills. Ability to work collaboratively with children, families, and staff. Current Pediatric First Aid and CPR certification (or ability to obtain upon hire). Successful completion of all background checks required by Illinois DCFS. Preferred Previous experience as a Lead Teacher, Assistant Director, or Director in a licensed child care center. Experience with curriculum planning and child assessments. Familiarity with Brightwheel or similar child care management software. Physical Requirements Ability to frequently stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, and sit on the floor. Ability to actively engage with children both indoors and outdoors. Ability to lift, carry, and move up to 40 pounds. Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations. Ability to supervise children on playgrounds, during field trips, and throughout the facility. Ability to perform repetitive tasks such as cleaning, organizing materials, and classroom preparation. Ability to maintain visual and auditory awareness of children at all times. Ability to work both inside and outside in varying weather conditions.

Pay:

$18.00 - $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

Paid time off

Work Location:

In person