Lead Early Childhood Teacher

Kido is thrilled to announce the opening of two brand-new schools in River North and West Loop —and we’re looking for founding team members to help bring our vision to life! At Kido International Preschool, we’re revolutionizing early childhood education by creating innovative, nurturing environments where children thrive. Guided by our core values— Listen, Learn, Lead —we combine global best practices with local culture to spark curiosity, build confidence, and foster creativity in every child. This is more than just a job—it’s your chance to inspire the next generation and help shape the future of education. Join our passionate community of educators and be part of something extraordinary from the very beginning. Come lead the way. Your journey starts here. Join the Founding Team at Kido! We believe in the power of education to shape young minds and create a lasting impact. In preparation for opening our brand-new campuses in River North and West Loop neighborhoods , we are looking for passionate and dedicated Lead Teachers to join our founding team and help nurture the next generation of learners. If you’re inspired by the opportunity to Listen to children’s needs, Learn alongside them every day, and Lead with creativity and purpose—Kido is the place for you! Please Note: To be considered, applicants must meet the qualifications for Lead Teacher as defined by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). This includes specific coursework and experience requirements for working in licensed childcare centers. Why Choose Kido? At Kido International Preschool, our core values— Listen, Learn, Lead —guide everything we do. We foster a community where educators are supported, encouraged to grow, and empowered to make a meaningful difference in children’s lives. As a Lead Teacher, you’ll have the opportunity to create impactful learning experiences in an innovative environment that values collaboration, curiosity, and creativity. What You’ll Do: Inspire Learning : Use our thoughtfully designed, easy-to-implement curriculum to deliver engaging lessons that spark curiosity and foster a love of learning. Your creativity is always welcome here! Multitask with Purpose : Support the growth and well-being of each child through responsive care, balanced routines, and effective classroom management. Build Strong Relationships : Partner with families and children through open communication, daily interactions, and meaningful moments of connection. Collaborate with Your Team : Work alongside talented educators to create a joyful, purposeful classroom culture that supports every child’s development. Make a Lasting Impact : Support children’s social, emotional, and academic growth in a nurturing, inclusive environment. Minimum Qualifications (Required by Illinois DCFS for Lead Teachers): High School Diploma or GED Must meet Illinois DCFS qualifications for a Lead Teacher, which typically includes: 60 semester hours (or 90 quarter hours) of college credit with at least 6 semester hours in Early Childhood Education or Child Development, OR A CDA (Child Development Associate) credential, OR An Associate's or Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field Must be at least 18 years old Experience teaching in a licensed preschool setting Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field 5–10 years of experience in a licensed childcare setting 2–3 years of experience in a Montessori or Reggio-inspired environment Why You’ll Love Working Here: People-Focused Culture : We prioritize our team and create a supportive, collaborative environment where you can thrive. Career Growth : Tuition reimbursement, paid professional development, and a clear growth path. Work-Life Balance : Competitive salary, 2 weeks of paid vacation, 1 week of sick time, paid holidays, and your birthday off! Perks : Free tuition for your child (ages 18 months to 5 years), a well-stocked teacher lounge, and bi-weekly classroom supply ordering. Health Benefits : Medical, dental, vision, company paid short-term disability and life insurance. Bonuses : Annual tenure bonuses and referral bonuses for new hires you sent our way! Be part of something extraordinary! As a founding team member , you'll have the unique opportunity to help shape a school culture that inspires the next generation. Apply now to start your journey with Kido and grow your career in a place where your work truly matters. Discover more About Kïdo by visiting our website at : As part of our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the children in our care, the successful candidate is expected to undergo an enhanced fingerprint-based background check. Kido is an equal opportunity employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr Village Voyager LLC DBA Kido International Preschool