LEAD PFA TEACHER (/Assistant-Director) ... {w/Path to Co-Owner Option}

Job Description

Job Description

LEAD PRESCHOOL-FOR-ALL TEACHER (/Assistant-Director) ... {w/Path to Co-Owner Option}

Job Description

Position Title: Lead Preschool for All Teacher/Assistant-Director
Program: Preschool for All (PFA) / Child Development Center (CDC)
Reports To: Program Director / Early Childhood Director
Employment Status: Full-Time
Salary: $15.00 - $25.00

Overview

Join our dynamic early childhood education team as a Teacher / Director (PFA/CDC) with an exciting co-owner opportunity possibly in your future! In this role, your “PFA” teaching leadership will drive program excellence, staff development, and operational success, all while making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families.  You will aide to lead and manage a vibrant preschool childcare center, fostering a nurturing environment where young children can learn, grow, and thrive.  This position offers the chance to shape educational experiences and potentially share future ownership in a thriving community-focused center.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Preschool for All Teacher is responsible for creating and maintaining a safe, nurturing, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate learning environment for preschool children. The teacher plans and implements a high-quality early childhood curriculum aligned with Illinois Preschool for All expectations , supports children's social-emotional, cognitive, language, physical, and developmental growth, and builds meaningful partnerships with families and colleagues.

The teacher is responsible for maintaining accurate child records, completing developmental observations and assessments, using data to individualize instruction, and collaborating with program leadership and support staff to ensure that each child receives appropriate learning experiences and support.

Duties

·         Develop and implement engaging early childhood education programs aligned with state standards and best practices (CDC/PFA focus)

·         Supervise and mentor teaching staff, ensuring high-quality instruction and adherence to safety protocols

·         Lead staff recruitment, training, performance evaluations, and ongoing professional development

·         Foster positive relationships with families through effective communication and responsive service

·         Oversee administrative tasks using educational administrative software and productivity tools to ensure smooth center functioning

·         Collaborate with community partners and participate in program development initiatives to enhance educational offerings

·         Manage daily center operations, including enrollment, attendance tracking, and compliance with licensing requirements

·         Opportunity to possibly “Grow” into a CDC co-ownership position from the ground up.

QUALIFICATIONS

·         Meets applicable Illinois Preschool for All teacher qualifications and program requirements.

·         Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, OR a closely related field preferred/required as applicable to the PFA position. (Non-degree pursuing requirements well to apply.)

·         Appropriate Illinois educator credential/licensure or approval to teach in the applicable early childhood program.

·         Knowledge of child development, developmentally appropriate practice, early childhood curriculum, and assessment.

·         Knowledge of the Illinois Early Learning and Development Standards (IELDS).

·         Experience working with preschool-aged children preferred.

·         Strong written and verbal communication skills.

·         Ability to work collaboratively with families, teachers, administrators, and community partners.

·         Commitment to culturally responsive, inclusive, and family-centered early childhood practices.

PROFESSIONAL EXPECTATIONS

The Preschool for All Teacher is expected to:

Communicate Clearly • Document Always • Coach When Needed • Hold Accountability

The teacher should demonstrate a commitment to continuous professional growth, reflective practice, teamwork, and creating positive outcomes for children and families.

PHYSICAL & WORK ENVIRONMENT

The teacher must be able to safely perform the physical responsibilities of working with young children, including sitting on the floor, bending, kneeling, standing for extended periods, assisting children when necessary, participating in classroom and outdoor activities, and responding appropriately to children's safety and supervision needs.

Special Notification & Incentives

·         Public Service Loan Forgiveness Co-operation (successful track record)

·         Possible Path to Director / Co-Ownership

·         BONUS OFFER for complete recruitment/startup/setup/execution of 10 kids in PFA session.

NOTE: The immediate responsibility is assisting in the setup, recruitment, and serving our Preschool-for-All (PFA) program under the 1st Lady CDC program. Therefore, responsibilities in all areas to assist in this effort will be expected.  “Growing With Us” in your efforts to obtain some of the expected requirements will be considered upon review of path to the desired Lead Teacher/Director destination. “Unicorn-Opportunity” ... THIS also includes a unique path “opportunity” to perhaps become a future “CDC Co-Owner” and ultimately a tenant at this HOPCA Family & Community Center facility for this community.

This role is ideal for passionate educators ready to lead with energy and vision while enjoying the opportunity to grow into co-owner status. We value energetic leadership combined with detailed organizational skills to create an inspiring learning environment. If you’re committed to excellence in early childhood education and eager to make a lasting impact, we want to hear from you.

Equal Opportunity Employer