Lead Teacher A+ Day School is seeking a caring, experienced, and dedicated Lead Teacher to join our early childhood education team. The Lead Teacher is responsible for creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom environment while providing developmentally appropriate learning experiences that support the growth and development of each child. The Lead Teacher serves as the primary classroom educator and is responsible for planning and supervising the classroom, implementing curriculum, maintaining a safe and organized environment, communicating with families, and providing leadership and direction to Assistant Teachers. This position is ideal for an early childhood professional who is passionate about teaching, committed to professional growth, and interested in building a long-term career in early childhood education. Responsibilities Plan and implement developmentally appropriate curriculum and activities that support children's cognitive, physical, social-emotional, and language development. Create an engaging classroom environment that encourages learning, exploration, creativity, and positive social interactions. Provide active and attentive supervision of children at all times, both indoors and outdoors. Establish and maintain consistent classroom routines, schedules, and expectations. Provide positive behavior guidance and use developmentally appropriate behavior-management strategies. Observe and document children's development, progress, behavior, and individual needs. Complete lesson plans, classroom documentation, assessments, observations, and other required paperwork accurately and on time. Maintain a clean, organized, safe, and developmentally appropriate classroom environment. Ensure classroom materials and equipment are safe, age-appropriate, and properly maintained. Communicate professionally and respectfully with parents and families regarding their child's daily experiences, development, behavior, and needs. Build positive relationships with families while maintaining confidentiality. Provide leadership, direction, and support to Assistant Teachers assigned to the classroom. Delegate classroom responsibilities appropriately and ensure that classroom staff work together effectively. Model professionalism, appropriate interactions, and positive teaching practices for other classroom staff. Ensure that all classroom staff follow A+ Day School policies, procedures, and expectations. Follow all applicable Illinois licensing requirements, health and safety regulations, mandated reporting requirements, and center policies. Maintain required First Aid, CPR, and pediatric First Aid certifications. Communicate classroom concerns, staffing needs, child-development concerns, and other relevant issues to center administration. Participate in staff meetings, training, and professional development opportunities. Take responsibility for the overall quality, organization, and daily operation of the classroom. Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required. Minimum Illinois qualification for an Early Childhood Teacher must be met. A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or higher early childhood credential is required for this position. Illinois Gateways to Opportunity Early Childhood Educator (ECE) Credential Level 3 or higher, Infant Toddler Credential (ITC) Level 3 or higher, CDA, or another Illinois-approved teacher qualification is preferred/accepted based on classroom assignment and licensing requirements. College coursework or a degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Elementary Education, Early Childhood Special Education, or a related field is strongly preferred. Previous experience working in a licensed childcare, preschool, or early childhood education setting is strongly preferred. Demonstrated ability to independently manage a classroom and maintain a safe, positive, and engaging learning environment. Strong understanding of child development and developmentally appropriate practices. Strong communication, organization, leadership, and teamwork skills. Ability to effectively supervise and provide direction to Assistant Teachers. Ability to communicate professionally with children, families, coworkers, and administration. Experience working with children with developmental delays, disabilities, or special needs is a plus. Pediatric First Aid and CPR certification is required or must be obtained within the required timeframe after hire. Must meet all applicable Illinois employment, background-check, health, training, and licensing requirements. Professional Growth A+ Day School believes in investing in employees who are committed to growing within the field of early childhood education. Lead Teachers are encouraged to continue their education, pursue additional Illinois Gateways credentials, obtain additional certifications, and develop their classroom leadership skills. Additional education, credentials, experience, demonstrated leadership, exceptional performance, and increased responsibilities may provide opportunities for advancement and increased compensation. What We Offer Competitive hourly pay based on experience, education, credentials, and responsibilities Paid training and professional development opportunities Opportunities for advancement within the teaching team Supportive classroom team environment Opportunities to continue your education and professional development A family-owned childcare organization with a long history of serving families in our community The opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young children If you are an experienced early childhood educator who is passionate about teaching, leadership, and creating a positive classroom environment, we would love to hear from you!

Pay:

$19.25 - $24.00 per hour

Benefits:

Employee discount Health insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance

Work Location:

In person