Support Teacher

The Gardner School • Chicago, IL

1d • $17 - $19 • Onsite

About The Position

The Support Teacher works in The Gardner School of River North’s preschool facility, supporting children’s development through meaningful interactions and helping classrooms maintain safe, organized, consistent routines. The teacher steps into classrooms to support Assistant Teachers during breaks or absences, assists with classroom tasks and child-to-staff ratios, and communicates professionally with teachers and leadership. The role requires following school policies, procedures, and licensing regulations, and maintaining a flexible, supportive, team-oriented approach.

The position requires a high school diploma or equivalent, eligibility to work in the U.S. without sponsorship, reliable attendance, intermediate PC skills, and proficiency with general administrative tasks. Early childhood experience is preferred. Candidates must have CPR/First Aid certification or be willing to obtain it and meet applicable state licensing and experience requirements. The role involves active engagement throughout the day, including standing, sitting on the floor, bending, and lifting up to approximately 60 pounds. The employee must be able to perform the essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Eligible to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.
• Regular and reliable attendance.
• Intermediate PC skills and proficiency with general administrative tasks.
• CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain it.
• Meet all state-specific licensing and experience requirements.
• Ability to stand, sit on the floor, bend, and lift up to approximately 60 pounds.
• Ability to fulfill the cognitive and interpersonal aspects of classroom leadership, including speaking, hearing, reading, writing, focusing attention, and building relationships.
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English fluently enough to communicate effectively with students, families, and staff, implement curriculum and safety procedures, and complete written reports.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience in early childhood settings.

Responsibilities

• Engage children in meaningful interactions that support development.
• Step into classrooms to support Assistant Teachers during breaks or absences.
• Help maintain classroom cleanliness, organization, and routine.
• Communicate respectfully and professionally with teachers and leadership.
• Model a supportive, flexible, and team-oriented attitude.
• Supervise children and maintain safety standards.
• Follow all policies, procedures, and licensing regulations.
• Assist in maintaining child-to-staff ratios and completing classroom tasks.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Childcare tuition discount.
• Paid holidays.
• Professional development opportunities and training.
• Opportunities for advancement within the organization.
• Access to the company-sponsored CDA program.
• Supportive, mission-driven culture.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED