Lead Teacher (Summer 2026)

Chicago Commons • Chicago, IL

20h

About The Position

Are you off for the summer and looking for a temporary teaching assignment? Join Chicago Commons for Summer 2026! Chicago Commons is hiring for: Nia Family Cente r 744 N. Monticello Ave. Chicago, IL 60624 At Chicago Commons, we believe the Reggio-Inspired approach to learning is one that mirrors our values. The Reggio-inspired approach to education is where children, families, and teachers work together to create a dynamic and problem-solving approach to learning. Our teachers aim to empower children to explore and learn in a unique environment that encourages child's critical thinking and creativity. Our early childhood program serves as the backbone for many at-risk Chicago communities, including West Humboldt Park, Pilsen, Bronzeville, and New City/Back of the Yards. High rates of poverty and limited educational and economic resources impact these neighborhoods. Position Summary The lead teacher is responsible for developing a classroom atmosphere where children can grow and develop in a safe and positive learning space. Candidates must have a passion for creating a safe and nurturing environment for children to receive a quality education, and the ability to lead the classroom team. 

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field. 
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee must be able to read and write English proficiently. 
• Candidates must regularly operate a word-processing system and therefore must be able to read, produce and transmit data on such a system. 

Responsibilities

• Contributes to the development of the overall agency and center educational plan 
• Leads classroom teams in creating an atmosphere in which children can grow and develop; develops a classroom environment that is welcoming and emphasizes the importance of the child; includes furnishings and supplies which are attractive, durable, and developmentally appropriate 
• Introduces, implements, and evaluates developmentally appropriate activities for young children including the following activities: Self Image, Language/Literacy Development, Music and Movement, Social Studies, Science, Math, Art, Large/Small Motor Activities, and In-Depth Projects 
• Supervises and interacts with all children’s activities  
• Trains staff and prepares performance evaluations with the assistance of the Site Director 
• Researches, implements, and evaluates curriculum methods and classroom management strategies 
• Responsible for preparing classroom materials in advance of children’s arrival and maintaining a clean classroom environment 
• Assists with the responsibility of ordering supplies needed for the program 
• Recommends maintenance and repairs as needed 
• Develops strong partnerships with the families 
• Attends home visits and conducts parent-teacher conference assessment reviews 
• Participates in Family Reviews and IFSP/IEP meetings 
• Leads the implementation of the Reggio Emilia Philosophy, focusing on in-depth studies and classroom explorations 
• Responsible for maintaining reports on children’s growth and development for all students in the classroom 
• Conducts weekly team meeting 
• Attends and participates in parent meetings and in-service training 
• Performs other duties as assigned. 

What This Job Offers