General responsibilities for the Lead Teacher role include, but are not limited to:

• Developing weekly lesson plans based on the project approach that includes activities in the following areas: science, math, literacy/language, and physical development
• Following a daily classroom schedule that includes both choice time, circle time and art/sensory activities
• Providing high-quality care including changing diapers, following hand washing procedures for staff and children, participate in family style dining, and monitor the safety and wellbeing of each child
• Documenting group activities through photos, observations and teacher reflection
• Conducting regular observations for individual portfolio assessments
• Conducting parent-teacher conferences (willingness to conduct home visits if deemed appropriate)
• Direct supervision of one or more teaching assistants (including conducting regular team meetings, modeling appropriate interactions with children and parents, training teaching assistants on documentation and project work)
• Updating parent blog on a daily basis
• Participating in annual Open House and other family events at the school
• Participating in ongoing professional development (a minimum of 15 hours per year is required by DCFS)

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Associate's Degree (60+ semester hours of college level coursework)
• A minimum of six semester hours in courses directly related directly to child care , Early Childhood Education, and/or child development (from birth to age six)
• Three (3) written character references
• Complete a background check and fingerprinting
• Must be available to work full time between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Schedule coordinated with the Director.
• Meets all DCFS licensing requirements, per the Rules 407, including a physical examination which provides evidence that staff are free of communicable disease, including active tuberculosis, and physical or mental conditions that could affect their ability to perform assigned duties
• Ability to maintain valid DCFS required certifications (SIDS, SBS, Food Handler, etc.)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in ECE or related field preferred
• At least one year experience providing care and education for young children in a group childcare setting
• Knowledge of and experience with the Reggio Approach and documentation
• Willingness to develop teaching skills through reflective practice
• Willingness to develop knowledge of developmentally appropriate practice
• Willingness to develop knowledge of DCFS licensing standards