Pre-K Lead Teacher (4s & 5s) – Illinois

Pre-K Lead Teacher (4s & 5s) - Illinois

Location: Illinois
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary: $20-$25 per hour

About Our Client

Our Client is a premier early childhood education provider committed to fostering a nurturing, engaging, and developmentally appropriate environment for young learners. They are seeking a dedicated and experienced Pre-K Lead Teacher to join their team and guide four--and five-year-old students in building essential skills for kindergarten readiness.

Position Overview

The Pre-K Lead Teacher will create and implement a structured, play-based curriculum that aligns with Illinois DCFS licensing standards and best practices in early childhood education. This role requires fostering a supportive classroom atmosphere that nurtures children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development while maintaining open communication with families and staff.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver engaging, developmentally appropriate lesson plans based on Illinois Early Learning Standards.
• Establish a safe, inclusive, and nurturing learning environment tailored to individual student needs.
• Foster strong relationships with children, families, and staff, promoting a collaborative and supportive community.
• Conduct ongoing assessments to monitor student progress and adjust teaching methods as needed.
• Ensure full compliance with Illinois DCFS Part 407 licensing regulations and other applicable accreditation standards.
• Uphold health, safety, and supervision protocols, including emergency preparedness and illness prevention.
• Collaborate with assistant teachers and support staff to enhance classroom learning experiences.
• Maintain accurate records of student development, attendance, and compliance documentation.
• Participate in team meetings, professional development sessions, and training programs to enhance skills and expertise.

Qualifications & RequirementsEducation & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development (required).
• Gateways ECE Credential Level 5 (preferred).
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in an early childhood classroom setting.

Certifications & Health Requirements

• Current First Aid & CPR certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
• Recent physical exam (completed within the past six months).
• Negative TB skin test results.
• Proof of two (2) MMR vaccinations and one (1) Tdap vaccine.
• An Illinois DCFS Check (CFS-718B).
• Compliance with any additional credentialing requirements set by our Client's accrediting bodies.

Additional Requirements

• Must provide three (3) professional reference letters, including at least one from a previous employer.
• 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

• Competitive pay: $20-$25 per hour.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health and dental insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer contributions.
• Flexible time off, including paid holidays, sick leave, and vacation.
• A supportive team environment with ongoing coaching, mentorship, and professional development opportunities.
• The opportunity to work in a high-quality, accredited early childhood center with growth potential.

Join our Client in shaping the future of young learners in a dynamic and engaging environment!

You will need to complete all necessary documentation, medical forms, fingerprinting, and background checks.

Salary : $20 - $25