Early Childhood Lead Teacher (Harlem Community Center)

About the role

The Early Childhood Lead Teacher plays a critical role in the successful operation of their designated HCC classroom. This role develops and leads high-quality early childhood activities that foster each child's growth physically, intellectually, emotionally, and socially. The lead teacher provides a positive classroom experience for children and families, implements age-appropriate curriculum, and supports all age groups as needed within the program.

Responsibilities

- Lead the day by creating engaging, developmentally appropriate learning experiences - Guide children and staff through daily routines, activities, and transitions - Coach and support team members, including new hires and volunteers - Build meaningful connections with children and families, including leading conferences - Ensure program quality and maintain compliance with all state regulations and safety standards - Track children’s progress through observations, documentation, and assessments - Maintain clean, organized, and welcoming learning spaces - Step in where needed to support classrooms, events, and daily operations

Qualifications

- Minimum age of 19 years old - High school diploma or equivalent required; or one to three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience - Must have completed 60 semester hours from an accredited college or university with a minimum of 6 semester hours in courses directly related to childcare and/or development from birth to age six; or a Child Development Associate Credential (CDA); or 1 year of child development experience and 30 semester hours from an accredited college or university with a minimum of 6 semester hours directly related to child care and/or development from birth to age six - CPR, AED and First Aid Certifications required within 90 days - Upon Hire: - Medical Release form CFS 602 filled out by physician, including proof of negative result of 2-step TB test - Must submit to a DCFS background check (Form CFS 718-B) and be fingerprinted (if necessary) - A minimum of 3 written references - Register with Gateways to Opportunity - Ability to participate in a minimum of 15 clock hours of in-service training per calendar year - Complete Mandated Reporter Training, as well as all required Gateways training per DCFS - Training in ECERS/ITERS Quality Rating Scale trainings and assessments - ExcelleRate Illinois Early Childhood Credential Level 3 or higher preferred - Training in Creative Curriculum and Assessment preferred