NURTURE, EDUCATE, INSPIRE. For more than 125 years, Northwestern Settlement has been a cornerstone of Chicago's West Town community for over a century, dedicated to providing holistic support to individuals and families in need. Our Head Start program is committed to offering high-quality early childhood education that fosters the social, emotional, and academic development of children. We believe in the transformative power of education and aim to create a nurturing environment where every child can thrive.

POSITION OVERVIEW We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Head Start Teacher to join our dynamic team at Northwestern Settlement. The ideal candidate will have a genuine passion for early childhood education, a deep understanding of child development principles, and a commitment to providing enriching learning experiences for young children. As a Head Start Teacher, you will play a pivotal role in creating a supportive and inclusive classroom environment that promotes the growth and well-being of each child.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and implement a comprehensive curriculum that aligns with Head Start Performance Standards and Illinois Early Learning Standards, fostering the cognitive, social, and emotional development of children.
• Create a warm and inviting classroom environment that encourages exploration, creativity, and independent learning.
• Establish positive relationships with children and families, maintaining open communication and collaborating with parents/guardians to support children's individual needs and goals.
• Conduct ongoing assessments of children's progress and development, using data to inform instructional planning and individualized interventions.
• Plan and facilitate developmentally appropriate activities and experiences that promote school readiness, including language and literacy development, math concepts, social skills, and self-regulation.
• Collaborate with colleagues and support staff to create a cohesive and collaborative teaching team, participating in team meetings, professional development opportunities, and program planning activities.
• Ensure compliance with all licensing and accreditation requirements, as well as program policies and procedures, to maintain a safe and healthy learning environment for children.
• Engage in reflective practice and continuous improvement, seeking feedback from supervisors, colleagues, and families to enhance teaching practices and outcomes.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field
• Bilingual in English/Spanish preferred
• Previous experience working in a Head Start or similar early childhood education program preferred.
• Knowledge of child development theory and best practices in early childhood education, including play-based learning, emergent curriculum, and culturally responsive teaching.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues from diverse backgrounds.
• Commitment to equity and inclusion, and the ability to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all children and families.
• Ability to adapt teaching strategies to meet the individual needs and learning styles of children, including those with diverse abilities and backgrounds.
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
• Proficiency in computer skills, Google and Microsoft Office Suite
• Reliable attendance and punctuality is essential.

POSITION TYPE

Full time Regular

COMPENSATION

Compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. In addition, all staff are equipped with the tools needed to succeed, including a dedicated work space, laptop, email, high-speed internet access, and all necessary supplies.

STATEMENT OF NON-DISCRIMINATION

Northwestern Settlement is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, making all employment decisions, including recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status or any other characteristic or classification protected by law.

HOW TO APPLY

If you are passionate about early childhood education and committed to serving children and families in need, we invite you to apply for the position of Head Start Teacher at Northwestern Settlement. To meet our licensing standards for the City of Chicago and the Department of Children and Family Services you will be required to provide three letters of recommendation from previous employers, and must be willing to undergo various background checks and employment verification.