Lead Teacher- Early Childhood

Children of America•Lindenhurst, IL

About The Position

Children of America (COA), a nationally accredited early childhood education organization with more than 65 locations across 18 states, is hiring a Lead Teacher. COA programs serve children from 6 weeks to 12 years old, including Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Pre-K, Before & After Care, and Summer Camp. The Lead Teacher creates an engaging, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate classroom where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. The role uses COA's Mind and Body Matters curriculum and works collaboratively with families, management, and fellow educators to support children's development and provide a high-quality learning experience. The anticipated pay range is $18.00–$21.00 per hour, based on experience and qualifications. Final compensation also depends on geographic location and internal equity; additional incentives may be available for eligible positions. COA offers a 50% childcare discount for eligible employees, career advancement opportunities, educational assistance and T.E.A.C.H. scholarship partnerships, comprehensive insurance benefits, a 401(k) plan, paid vacation, sick time and holidays, employee referral bonuses, and recognition programs. Applicants must meet applicable state and local childcare licensing requirements. Job offers are contingent upon successful completion of a background check and submission of required state documents. Reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. Children of America is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Requirements

CDA credential OR 60 semester hours of college credit, including at least 6 semester hours in Early Childhood Education or a related field, as applicable to state licensing requirements.
At least one year of experience working in a licensed childcare or early childhood education setting.
Current CPR and First Aid certification, or ability to obtain certification as required by state regulations.
Must meet all applicable state and local childcare licensing requirements.
Pass a background check and submit required state documents.
Passion for working with children and supporting their development.
Strong classroom leadership, organization, and decision-making skills.
Ability to build positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues.
Flexibility, adaptability, and a solutions-oriented mindset.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Commitment to maintaining a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment.
Desire to continue learning and growing professionally.

Responsibilities

Lead daily classroom instruction using COA's Mind and Body Matters curriculum.
Develop and implement engaging, age-appropriate lesson plans and learning activities.
Create a safe, organized, and positive classroom environment that encourages exploration and development.
Support children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.
Build meaningful relationships with children and establish strong partnerships with their families.
Communicate regularly and professionally with parents, management, and teaching team members.
Observe, document, and communicate children's developmental progress using classroom technology.
Establish consistent classroom routines, expectations, and positive guidance strategies.
Collaborate with fellow educators to ensure continuity of care and a high-quality learning experience.
Bring creativity, enthusiasm, patience, and passion to the classroom.