PEL Teacher Type 04

Chicago Commons•Chicago, IL

17d•$67,000 - $72,353

About The Position

The PEL Teacher works in Chicago Commons’ Preschool for All (PFA) Program, a 10-month program running from September 1 through June 30. The teacher provides a stimulating, safe, and developmentally appropriate educational environment that supports children’s cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. The role leads the classroom team, implements an emergent curriculum informed by children’s interests, and integrates the Reggio Emilia approach into daily learning.

Requirements

Professional Educator License (PEL) in Early Childhood Education with a bilingual endorsement; alternatively, a bachelor’s degree and a Level 5 Gateways credential, with a written plan to obtain a PEL within five years of September 1, 2026.
Must be organized and detail-oriented.
Excellent critical-thinking skills.
Patience when implementing techniques to support students.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
Ability to collaborate effectively and appropriately with others.
Ability to maintain confidentiality.
Proficiency in spoken and written English.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual ability.

Responsibilities

Lead the classroom team in creating a welcoming, child-centered environment with attractive, durable, developmentally appropriate furnishings and supplies.
Introduce, implement, and evaluate developmentally appropriate activities in areas including self-image, language and literacy, music and movement, social studies, science, math, art, motor development, and in-depth projects.
Supervise and interact with children during activities.
Train staff and prepare performance evaluations with assistance from the Site Director.
Research, implement, and evaluate curriculum methods and classroom management strategies.
Prepare classroom materials before children arrive.
Develop strong partnerships with families; attend home visits and conduct parent-teacher conference assessment reviews.
Participate in Family Reviews and IFSP/IEP meetings.
Lead implementation of the Reggio Emilia philosophy, including in-depth studies and classroom explorations.
Maintain reports on children’s growth and development and ensure quality observations are entered appropriately in Teaching Strategies GOLD.
Conduct weekly team meetings.
Maintain an organized, clean, and clutter-free work area.
Protect the confidentiality of clients’ and staff members’ personal information.
Collaborate with coworkers, offer help when needed, and seek assistance when necessary.
Address challenges with clients or staff in a respectful manner that helps others feel valued.
Communicate respectfully and with concern for the well-being of parents, students, and coworkers, without regard to background, race, religion, age, gender, disability, or sexual orientation.
Interact with students respectfully and supportively, helping them feel safe and ensuring their voices are heard in learning and daily activities.
Participate in assigned and individually selected training aligned with a professional development plan and career aspirations.
Perform other duties as assigned.