Assistant Toddler Teacher

The Gardner School of Lincoln Park believes learning begins with love—for children, for teaching, and for making a difference. Join our passionate, professional team in our state-of-the-art preschool, where your ideas are valued, your growth is supported, and your impact is celebrated every day.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Lead Teacher in implementing age-appropriate curriculum and activities that align with each child’s developmental needs.
• Offer nurturing guidance that supports each child’s emotional and behavioral development.
• Model The Gardner School’s core values: Children First, Trust, Innovation, and Make a Difference.
• Maintain respectful, supportive relationships with parents and families.
• Ensure a clean, organized, and safe classroom by supporting daily routines, hygiene, and sanitation procedures.
• Collaborate with teaching team members and school leaders to ensure consistency and support across classrooms.
• Uphold a professional, team-oriented mindset at all times.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent (required).
• Current CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire).
• 1+ years of experience working with children ages 6 weeks to 5 years.
• Eligible to work in the U.S. without sponsorship (required).
• Regular and reliable attendance.
• Passion for early childhood education and a nurturing, joyful approach to care.
• Intermediate PC skills and proficiency with general administrative tasks (required).
• Active engagement throughout the day including standing, sitting on the floor, bending, and lifting up to ~60 lbs.
• Ability to fulfill cognitive and interpersonal aspects of classroom leadership including speaking, hearing, reading, writing, focusing attention, and building relationships.
• Interest in growing within a supportive, mission-driven preschool environment.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Childcare tuition discount.
• Paid holidays.
• Professional development opportunities.

Pay

The starting pay range is $17.40–$21.50 per hour, based on education and experience.

Career Growth

• Ongoing professional development and training.
• Opportunities for advancement within our growing organization.
• A supportive, mission-driven culture.