Infant Toddler Specialist

About It Takes A Village Family of Schools (ITAV)It Takes A Village Family of Schools (ITAV) is a beacon for educating and uplifting Black children and families across Chicago. We provide a culturally responsive, social justice–centered education that empowers students to become confident learners, critical thinkers, and changemakers.At ITAV, learning is joyful and transformative, teaching is innovative, and classrooms extend far beyond four walls. We are committed to nurturing the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally—while building strong, connected communities.Position OverviewWe are seeking a knowledgeable and passionate Infant Toddler Specialist to support instructional quality, compliance, and child development outcomes across our infant and toddler classrooms. This role serves as a coach, mentor, and content expert for teaching staff while ensuring classrooms maintain high-quality learning environments aligned with licensing, funding, and program standards.The Infant Toddler Specialist plays a critical leadership role in supporting teachers, strengthening family partnerships, and promoting developmentally appropriate practices for infants, toddlers, and twos programs.Key ResponsibilitiesInstructional Coaching & Teacher SupportProvide coaching, mentorship, and technical assistance to infant and toddler teaching staffConduct regular classroom observations and provide actionable feedback to educatorsLead monthly meetings with teaching staff to review lesson planning, classroom environment, child development, and professional growthSupport teachers in implementing individualized instruction and developmentally appropriate practicesCurriculum & Child DevelopmentEnsure implementation and compliance with approved infant/toddler curricula and assessment toolsReview lesson plans regularly to ensure alignment with developmental goals and individualized learning needsSupport implementation of IFSP goals and individualized learning strategiesTrain staff on Teaching Strategies Gold, ASQ, ASQ-SE, and other assessment toolsMonitor developmental screenings, assessments, and checkpoints to ensure completion and accuracyProfessional Development & Staff GrowthCoordinate and facilitate professional development opportunities for infant/toddler staffSupport staff in maintaining Gateways Registry compliance and professional development documentationDevelop and implement onsite trainings to strengthen instructional practicesStay informed on current infant/toddler research, best practices, and licensing standardsCompliance, Health & SafetyEnsure classrooms maintain compliance with DCFS Licensing Standards, program requirements, and health and safety expectationsObserve classroom environments to ensure safety, cleanliness, and appropriate sanitation practicesSupport maintenance of classroom binders and required documentationAssist with classroom ratios and coverage as neededFamily & Community EngagementFoster collaboration between families, teachers, and support staffSupport parent-teacher conferences, family engagement events, and family meetingsProvide families with information and feedback related to child development and classroom progressParticipate in family support meetings and community engagement initiativesProgram Evaluation & Operational SupportSupport completion of program quality assessments, including ITERS and other monitoring toolsAssist with implementation of site-wide improvement and professional development plansSupport the Site Director with staffing, classroom operations, and continuity of care planningSubmit required reports and maintain accurate program documentationPerform additional duties as assigned to support site and organizational needsWhy Join ITAV?Make an Impact : Support the development of infants and toddlers during the most critical years of learning and growthGrow Your Career: Access leadership opportunities, coaching experience, and ongoing professional developmentBe in Community: Join a mission-driven team committed to equity, excellence, and culturally responsive educationInnovate in Education: Help shape high-quality infant and toddler programming grounded in best practices and family partnershipPosition DetailsLocation: ITAV Early Learning Center, Humboldt Park (Chicago, IL)Position Type: Full-Time, 12-Month PositionSalary Range: $57,500 – $73,158Grant FundedThis position is supported through grant-funded programs that are integral to ITAV’s early childhood education model. These funding streams enable us to expand access to high-quality, culturally responsive care and learning across our communities.Required:Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related fieldGateways Infant Toddler Credential Level 5Minimum 2 years of early childhood experiencePreferred:Master's degree in Early Childhood Education or related fieldLevel I Director CredentialExperience with Head Start, CACFP, and NAEYC AccreditationStrong knowledge of IL DCFS Licensing StandardsPhysical RequirementsAbility to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and sit on the floor for extended periodsAbility to lift and carry up to 50 poundsAbility to actively supervise and engage with children indoors and outdoorsAbility to respond quickly to children’s needs and emergency situationsAbility to maintain visual and auditory awareness of children at all timesAbility to meet all health and safety requirements in accordance with DCFS Licensing Standards and ITAV policiesWho You AreChild Development Expert: You have deep knowledge of infant and toddler development and best practicesInstructional Coach: You are skilled in mentoring educators and improving classroom qualityRelationship-Driven: You build strong partnerships with teachers, families, and support staffOrganized & Detail-Oriented: You manage compliance, documentation, and program requirements effectivelyMission-Aligned: You are passionate about equity, family partnership, and culturally responsive educationCompensation & BenefitsWe believe in investing in our educators through a competitive, transparent compensation and benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and long-term success.Up to 80% employer-paid medical coverageFull benefits package, including Dental, Vision, Legal Services, and Short-Term Disability3% 401(k) employer match to help you build long-term financial securityUp to $10,000 annually in tuition assistance to support degree completion and credential advancementRobust paid time off, including 16 PTO days per year, 9 sick/personal days per year, and compensatory time eligible15 paid holidays annuallyClear pathways for career advancement and leadership opportunitiesReady to Make a Difference?If you are passionate about infant and toddler development and ready to make a meaningful impact, we encourage you to apply. Submit your resume and cover letter to join a team that is shaping the future—one child at a time. #J-18808-Ljbffr Community Education Network