Lead Pre Kindergarten Teacher

The Goddard School • Chicago, IL

21h • Onsite

About The Position

The Goddard School of South Loop in Chicago, Illinois is seeking a full-time Lead Pre-Kindergarten Teacher to guide four- and five-year-old children through the transition to Kindergarten. The teacher will take ownership of a classroom and create a purposeful, engaging learning environment that combines developmentally appropriate instruction with play, exploration, and child-led learning. Kindergarten readiness includes academic foundations as well as confidence, independence, communication, emotional regulation, problem-solving, classroom habits, and enthusiasm for learning.

The teacher builds relationships with children and families, plans learning experiences, observes and documents children's progress, and communicates thoughtfully with families about development and readiness. The role includes maintaining children's safety through active supervision, keeping an organized and welcoming classroom, and leading supporting teachers in consistent expectations and routines. The teacher also collaborates with school leadership and other educators, participates in school events and professional development, and supports children's individual needs and transition to Kindergarten.

The school describes its leadership approach as supportive, coaching-oriented, and accountable, with high expectations for safety, professionalism, reliability, classroom engagement, and quality education. Benefits and eligibility may vary by position and location; the franchise owner is the employer and sets local wages and benefits.

Requirements

• Experience teaching preschool- or Pre-K-aged children.
• Ability to meet Illinois DCFS Lead Teacher requirements.
• Knowledge of child development and Kindergarten readiness expectations.
• Strong classroom management and positive guidance skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to observe, document, and communicate children's developmental progress.
• Ability to meet the physical requirements of an early childhood classroom.
• Commitment to maintaining licensing, health, and safety requirements.
• COVID vaccination is requested.
• Dependability, professionalism, and commitment to children's safety and consistency.
• Ability to communicate professionally with families, coworkers, and leadership.
• Ability to provide leadership and direction to supporting teachers.

Nice To Haves

• Early Childhood Education coursework, degree, CDA, or equivalent qualifications.
• Preschool or Pre-K teaching experience and readiness to take on a Pre-K leadership role.
• Warm, patient, nurturing approach while maintaining clear classroom expectations.
• Ability to balance purposeful teaching with play, exploration, and child-led learning.
• Reflective, receptive to coaching and feedback, and interested in continued professional growth.
• Creativity, positive energy, and a solutions-oriented approach.

Responsibilities

• Build warm, trusting relationships with children and families.
• Plan and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate Pre-K learning experiences.
• Support Kindergarten readiness in literacy, early math, science, writing, communication, social-emotional development, and executive functioning.
• Help children develop independence with routines, belongings, self-help skills, and classroom responsibilities.
• Encourage children to ask questions, solve problems, collaborate, and think independently.
• Strengthen children's listening, attention, persistence, and ability to participate in group settings.
• Observe and document children's developmental and academic progress, and identify areas of strength or need for additional support.
• Communicate regularly and professionally with families about children's growth and readiness.
• Create small-group and individualized learning opportunities when appropriate.
• Maintain an organized, welcoming, and stimulating classroom environment.
• Actively supervise children and ensure their safety throughout the day.
• Lead and guide supporting teachers in maintaining consistent classroom expectations and routines.
• Collaborate with school leadership and other educators to support children's transition to Kindergarten.
• Participate in school events, professional development, and team initiatives.
• Maintain licensing, health, and safety requirements.

Benefits

• Tuition reimbursement and support with continuing education and credential advancement.
• Retirement plan and 401(k) benefits, including 401(k) matching.
• Referral Program.
• Professional development assistance, training opportunities, and career growth opportunities.
• Dental insurance.
• Employee discounts and childcare benefits/discounts.
• Health insurance and other eligible benefits.
• Paid time off.
• Paid holidays.
• Signing bonus.
• Vision insurance.
• Classroom resources and regular appreciation and recognition.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed