Lead Teacher- IL
About The Position
Children of America is hiring a Lead Teacher to support its early childhood education programs. The organization operates a nationally accredited preschool with more than 65 locations across 18 states and serves children from 6 weeks to 12 years old through Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Pre-K, Before & After Care, and Summer Camp programs. The Lead Teacher works alongside other educators in a supportive environment that encourages professional growth and brings together employees’ varied perspectives and experiences. The role interacts daily with children, parents, management, and teaching staff to foster a collaborative, positive learning environment. The Lead Teacher carries out daily lesson plans and leads classroom instruction using COA’s Mind and Body Matters curriculum. The position also supports children’s development and well-being, communicates with families and colleagues, and documents and delivers child progress reports using technology. The listed hourly rate is $18.00–$20.00. Final compensation depends on experience, skills, location, and internal equity; the role may also be eligible for performance-based incentives or other benefits. Offers are contingent on a successful background check and submission of required state documents. Children of America is an equal opportunity employer and may provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.
Requirements
- CDA or 60 semester hours of college credits, including 6 hours in Early Childcare.
- At least 1 year of experience in a licensed childcare setting.
- CPR and First Aid certification.
- Meet all state licensing requirements.
- Strong organizational and decision-making skills.
- Ability to build positive relationships with children, families, and staff.
- Flexibility and adaptability in challenging situations.
- Commitment to professional growth.
Responsibilities
- Carry out daily lesson plans.
- Assist in creating a safe, structured, and positive learning environment.
- Communicate professionally with parents, children, and team members.
- Use technology to document and deliver child progress reports.
- Show empathy toward children's emotions and parents' needs.
- Set age-appropriate expectations for children.
- Bring creativity, passion, and engagement to the work.
- Lead classroom instruction using COA's Mind and Body Matters curriculum.
Benefits
- Internal career advancement opportunities
- 50% employee childcare discount
- Educational assistance and T.E.A.C.H. scholarship partnerships
- Employee referral bonuses and recognition programs
- Medical, dental, vision, life, accident, and disability benefits
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Paid vacation, sick time, and holidays
- May be eligible for performance-based incentives or other benefits
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Associate degree
