Pre-K Teacher

Position Summary – Level 3 Preschool Teacher

We are seeking an enthusiastic, energetic teacher who enjoys engaging with children, families, and colleagues in a collaborative classroom setting. The Level 3 Teacher works alongside the Lead (Level 5) Preschool Teacher to maintain a flexible and developmentally appropriate PFA program that fosters each child's learning and personal growth.

This role supports the creation of a nurturing environment where children can develop communication skills, positive attitudes, and foundational knowledge for future school success—aligned with each child's individual abilities and the Illinois Early Learning and Development Standards (IELDS).

The Level 3 Teacher helps strengthen the connection between home and school through positive communication and teamwork, and contributes to a supportive, professional environment for children, families, and staff.

Qualifications:

• Gateway Level 3 Certificate
• Willingness to obtain Para-Pro Certificate

Responsibilities include:

• Actively supports classroom instruction and activities designed to promote each child's social-emotional, physical, and intellectual growth and development.
• Demonstrates understanding of child development principles and applies best practices in early childhood education.
• Partners with the Lead Teacher to plan, prepare, and implement age-appropriate lesson plans, activities, and learning experiences.
• Engages with children individually and in groups to foster curiosity, independence, and learning through play and exploration.
• Introduces, supports, and reinforces skills in language and literacy, number concepts, colors, shapes, textures, science, health, safety, music, rhythm, movement, and creative arts.
• Observes and documents children's progress through daily notes, portfolios, and developmental assessments.
• Contributes to parent-teacher communication by sharing observations and updates as requested by the Lead Teacher or Director.
• Helps maintain a safe, organized, and positive classroom environment conducive to learning and exploration.
• Shares responsibility with the classroom team for daily routines, transitions, and cleaning after classroom activities.
• Serves as a positive role model for children and teammates, demonstrating professionalism, warmth, and teamwork.

Qualifications

• Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field
• Gateways ECE Level 3 certification
• Proven experience in classroom management and lesson planning
• Strong communication skills to effectively interact with students and parents
• Familiarity with early childhood education principles and practices
• Ability to adapt teaching methods to meet the needs of young learners

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $ $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Education:

• Associate (Preferred)

Experience:

• Child Care: 1 year (Required)

License/Certification:

• Gateways ECE Level 3 or Higher (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Homewood, IL Required)

Work Location: In person