What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Teacher position at DW Bridges?
Lead Toddler Teacher & Lead 3's Teacher - Illinois
Location: Illinois
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary: $20-$21 per hour
About Our Client
Our Client is a premier early childhood education provider dedicated to creating a nurturing, engaging, and developmentally appropriate environment for young learners. We are currently seeking two enthusiastic and experienced teachers to join our team: a Lead Toddler Teacher and a Lead 3 Teacher. Both roles involve guiding young children in their educational journey, helping them develop essential skills in preparation for future learning experiences.
Position Overview
As a Lead Teacher, you will create and implement a structured, play-based curriculum tailored to the needs of toddlers or three-year-olds. This position requires fostering a positive classroom atmosphere that promotes social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development while maintaining open communication with families and staff.
Key Responsibilities
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Develop and deliver engaging, developmentally appropriate lesson plans based on Illinois Early Learning Standards.
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Create a safe, inclusive, and nurturing learning environment, focusing on individual student needs.
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Build strong relationships with children, families, and staff, fostering a supportive, collaborative community.
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Conduct ongoing assessments to monitor student progress and adjust teaching methods as needed.
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Ensure compliance with Illinois DCFS Part 407 licensing regulations and other accreditation standards.
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Uphold health, safety, and supervision protocols, including emergency preparedness and illness prevention.
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Collaborate with assistant teachers and support staff to enhance classroom experiences.
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Maintain accurate records of student development, attendance, and compliance documentation.
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Participate in team meetings and professional development sessions to enhance skills and expertise.
Qualifications & Requirements
Education & Experience
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Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development (required).
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Gateways ECE Credential Level 5 (preferred).
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Minimum of two (2) years of experience in an early childhood classroom setting.
Certifications & Health Requirements
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Current First Aid & CPR certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
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Recent physical exam (completed within the past six months).
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Negative TB skin test results.
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Proof of two (2) MMR vaccinations and one (1) Tdap vaccine.
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Illinois DCFS Check (CFS-718B).
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Compliance with any additional credentialing requirements set by the Client's accrediting bodies.
Additional Requirements
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Must provide three (3) professional reference letters, including at least one from a previous employer.
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If additional qualifications are needed, the candidate must be willing to work toward completion with a signed plan approved by the Director.
What Our Client Offers
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Competitive pay: $20-$21 per hour.
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Comprehensive benefits: Health and dental insurance.
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401(k): Retirement plan with employer contributions.
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Flexible time off: Paid holidays, sick leave, and vacation.
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Supportive team environment: Ongoing coaching, mentorship, and professional development opportunities.
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Growth potential: Opportunity to work in a high-quality, accredited early childhood center with opportunities for advancement.
Join our Client and make a difference in the lives of young learners, helping shape the future of early childhood education in a dynamic and engaging environment!
You will need to complete all necessary documentation, medical forms, fingerprinting, and background checks.
Salary : $20 - $21