Assistant Teacher (0 to 3)

Chicago Commons•Chicago, IL

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant Teacher assists the lead teacher in creating a safe, welcoming, and positive classroom environment where young children can grow and learn. The role supports developmentally appropriate activities and learning through Chicago Commons’ Reggio-inspired approach, which brings children, families, and teachers together in a dynamic, problem-solving process that encourages critical thinking and creativity. The position is based at the Paulo Freire Center, 1653 W. 43rd Street, Chicago, Illinois. The stated workday is 7.5 hours.

Requirements

Associate degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development, or 30 college credit hours including at least 15 credit hours in early childhood or child development.
Read and write English proficiently.
Operate a word-processing system and read, produce, and transmit data using such a system.
Successfully complete a pre-employment drug screening.
Successfully complete all required DCFS criminal background checks.
Provide proof of required education or credentials.
Verify previous employment and work history.
Occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds and frequently stand, walk, reach, and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.

Nice To Haves

At least one year of experience in an early learning setting.

Responsibilities

Partner with the lead teacher to create a welcoming classroom learning environment for children and families.
Assist the lead teacher in planning, implementing, and evaluating developmentally appropriate activities, including activities focused on self-image, language and literacy, music and movement, social studies, science, math, art, motor skills, and in-depth projects.
Supervise and interact with children during activities.
Develop strong partnerships with families.
Assume responsibility for the classroom when the lead teacher is absent.
Attend home visits and conduct parent-teacher conference assessment reviews as needed.
Participate in Family Reviews and IFSP/IEP meetings as needed.
Share responsibility for preparing and cleaning up classroom activities.
Assist with ordering supplies needed for the program.
Maintain reports on children's growth and development.
Attend and participate in parent meetings, in-service training, and weekly team meetings.
Assist with implementing the Reggio Emilia philosophy, with a focus on in-depth studies and classroom explorations.
Perform other duties as assigned.