Teacher (Early Childhood 0-3)

Brightpoint • Chicago, IL

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Brightpoint is seeking an Early Childhood Teacher for children ages 0–3 at the Mitzi Freidheim Englewood Child & Family Center. The teacher is part of a mission-driven team working to advance children’s well-being by investing in families and strengthening communities. Using Head Start, Early Head Start, and Creative Curriculum®, the teacher supports children’s physical, emotional, and cognitive development through play and hands-on experiences.

The teacher develops individualized lesson plans, participates in classroom curriculum implementation, and works with parents and the teaching team to support positive outcomes for children. The center has NAEYC accreditation and an ExceleRate Gold Circle of Quality designation. The position is full-time and salaried in a classroom setting. The center is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; assigned shifts vary.

Requirements

• For teaching children ages 0–3, an associate degree in Child Development or a closely related field with at least 18 hours of early childhood education (ECE) credits; alternatively, a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential and enrollment in a college program in Child Development, Early Childhood Education, or a closely related field, with at least 30 credit hours completed, including 12 hours in Early Childhood Education.
• Ability to obtain an Illinois Gateways to Opportunity Early Childhood Education Level 4 credential within 12 months of employment.
• Ability to obtain an Illinois Gateways to Opportunity Infant Toddler Level 4 credential within 12 months of employment.
• At least 1 year of experience working with children and/or families.
• Candidates without the required degree or credentials may be considered with an approved educational plan.

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual in Spanish.

Responsibilities

• Participate in classroom curriculum implementation that supports high-quality teaching and learning, reflects mandated elements and components and parental and cultural influences, and promotes children’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development.
• Meet the education requirements of children in the assigned classroom, including completing required screenings.
• Assess children and evaluate and document results.
• Collaborate with the teaching team to establish classroom guidelines and goals and contribute ideas for lesson plans.
• Conduct small-group, large-group, and individualized activities.
• Actively supervise children and ensure their safety and well-being indoors and outdoors.
• Maintain knowledge of therapeutic and educational approaches in early education.
• Ensure safety rules are followed and guard against harmful situations on field trips, walking trips, and the playground.
• Prepare supplies and the environment for activities.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Three scheduled weeks of paid time off each year (Spring, Summer, and Winter).
• Additional flexible paid leave that accrues based on tenure.
• 11 paid holidays.
• Supplemental insurance options.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Leadership development opportunities and one-on-one mentorship through Emerging Leaders.
• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness through Brightpoint’s status as an approved agency.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree