Daycare Teacher (Birth - Preschool)
About The Position
It Takes A Village Family of Schools (ITAV) is a beacon for educating and uplifting Black children and families across Chicago. We provide a culturally responsive, social justice–centered education that empowers students to become confident learners, critical thinkers, and changemakers. At ITAV, learning is joyful and transformative, teaching is innovative, and classrooms extend far beyond four walls. We are committed to nurturing the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally—while building strong, connected communities. We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Birth–3 Teacher to join our early childhood team. In this role, you will create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where infants and toddlers can explore, grow, and reach key developmental milestones. This is an opportunity to make a lasting impact during the most critical years of a child’s development while contributing to a mission-driven, innovative organization. This position is supported through grant-funded programs that are integral to ITAV’s early childhood education model. These funding streams enable us to expand access to high-quality, culturally responsive care and learning across our communities.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field
- Gateways Credential (Level 5)
- Child-Centered: You prioritize the safety, well-being, and development of young children
- Knowledgeable: You understand early childhood development, milestones, and individual learning differences
- Creative & Engaging: You design meaningful learning experiences that spark curiosity and exploration
- Collaborative: You value teamwork and open communication with families and colleagues
- Mission-Aligned: You are passionate about culturally responsive education and social justice
Nice To Haves
- Master's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field
- Professional Educator License (PEL) in Early Childhood Education
- Prior experience working with infants and toddlers in a licensed childcare or early learning setting
Responsibilities
- Provide attentive, nurturing care to infants and toddlers in a safe and stimulating environment
- Build strong, responsive relationships with children and families
- Conduct developmental observations and assessments to support individualized learning plans
- Plan and implement engaging, age-appropriate activities that support cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom aligned with licensing and health regulations
- Monitor children’s well-being and respond appropriately to signs of illness or distress
- Collaborate with colleagues and leadership to continuously improve classroom practices and student outcomes
- Perform additional duties as assigned to support classroom, site, and organizational needs
Benefits
- Up to 80% employer-paid medical coverage
- Full benefits package, including Dental, Vision, Legal Services, and Short-Term Disability
- 3% 401(k) employer match to help you build long-term financial security
- Up to $10,000 annually in tuition assistance to support degree completion and credential advancement
- Robust paid time off, including 16 PTO days per year, 9 sick/personal days per year, and compensatory time eligible
- 15 paid holidays annually
- Clear pathways for career advancement and leadership opportunities
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
