Lead Pre Kindergarten Teacher
About The Position
The Goddard School of South Loop in Chicago, Illinois, is seeking a full-time Lead Pre-Kindergarten Teacher to guide children through the transition to Kindergarten. The teacher takes ownership of the classroom and creates an engaging, purposeful learning environment that prepares children academically, socially and emotionally while preserving the creativity, exploration and joy of early childhood. The role focuses on developmentally appropriate learning across literacy, early math, science, writing, communication, social-emotional development and executive functioning. Teachers support children's independence, curiosity, problem-solving, classroom participation and confidence, and observe and document each child's progress. They communicate with families, provide individualized and small-group learning opportunities as appropriate, maintain a safe and welcoming classroom, and guide supporting teachers. The teacher also collaborates with school leadership and educators, participates in school events and professional development, and supports each child's transition to Kindergarten. The school describes its leadership approach as supportive, coaching-oriented and accountable, with resources and guidance for teachers alongside high expectations for safety, professionalism, reliability, classroom engagement and quality education. Candidates should be prepared to meet applicable licensing, health and safety requirements. The posting notes that candidates should be COVID vaccinated.
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.
- The posting states that candidates should be COVID vaccinated.
Nice To Haves
- Early Childhood Education coursework, a degree, a CDA or equivalent qualifications are preferred.
- Experience teaching preschool or Pre-K children; experienced preschool teachers meeting Lead Teacher qualifications and ready to step into a Pre-K leadership role are encouraged to apply.
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; identify strengths and areas where additional support may be helpful.
- 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
- Professional development assistance and training opportunities.
- Referral program.
- Retirement plan and 401(k) benefits, including 401(k) matching.
- Tuition reimbursement and support with continuing education and credential advancement.
- Dental insurance.
- Employee discounts and childcare benefits or discounts.
- Health insurance and other eligible benefits.
- Paid time off.
- Paid holidays.
- Signing bonus.
- Vision insurance.
- Competitive compensation based on education and experience.
- Opportunities for increased responsibility and career growth.
- Curriculum and classroom resources.
- Regular appreciation and recognition throughout the year.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
