Lead Teacher (Summer 2026)

Chicago Commons • Chicago, IL

3d

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: Guadalupano Family Center 1814 S. Paulina, Chicago, IL 60608 Paulo Freire Center 1653 W. 43rd Street, Chicago, IL 60609 Taylor Center for New Experiences 1633 N. Hamlin, Chicago, IL 60647 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. 
• 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. 

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