Assistant Teacher

The Gardner School•Naperville, IL

3d•$17 - $21•Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant Teacher works at The Gardner School of Naperville South, a state-of-the-art preschool. The role supports the Lead Teacher in providing age-appropriate learning experiences and nurturing care for children, while promoting their developmental, emotional, and behavioral needs. The Assistant Teacher contributes to a safe, clean, and organized classroom, maintains positive relationships with families, and collaborates with teaching colleagues and school leaders. The school describes its culture as professional, supportive, and mission-driven, with a focus on children, trust, innovation, and making a difference. Professional development, training, and opportunities for advancement are available.

Requirements

High school diploma.
At least 1 year of experience working with children ages 6 weeks to 5 years.
Eligible to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.
Regular and reliable attendance.
Passion for early childhood education and a nurturing, joyful approach to care.
Intermediate PC skills and proficiency with general administrative tasks.
Ability to remain actively engaged throughout the day, including standing, sitting on the floor, bending, and lifting up to approximately 60 pounds.
Ability to fulfill the cognitive and interpersonal aspects of classroom leadership, including speaking, hearing, reading, writing, focusing attention, and building relationships.
Fluent English reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension sufficient to communicate with students, families, and staff, implement curriculum and safety procedures, and complete written reports.
Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

Nice To Haves

CDA or an Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field, including at least 6 credit hours in Early Childhood Education.
Current CPR/First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain certification upon hire.
Interest in growing within a supportive, mission-driven preschool environment.

Responsibilities

Assist the Lead Teacher in implementing age-appropriate curriculum and activities that align with each child’s developmental needs.
Offer nurturing guidance that supports each child’s emotional and behavioral development.
Model The Gardner School’s core values: Children First, Trust, Innovation, and Make a Difference.
Maintain respectful, supportive relationships with parents and families.
Support daily routines, hygiene, and sanitation procedures to ensure a clean, organized, and safe classroom.
Collaborate with teaching team members and school leaders to ensure consistency and support across classrooms.
Maintain a professional, team-oriented mindset.