Kindergarten Teacher - Children of Peace - Illinois Medical District - Chicago

Catholic School Teacher in the Archdiocese of Chicago, serving more than 40,000 students across 150+ elementary and high schools in Cook and Lake counties. The Archdiocese is one of the largest private school systems in the U.S., with schools receiving 96 Blue Ribbon awards from the U.S. Department of Education over the past decade.

About the Role

We are seeking a caring, energetic, and highly organized Kindergarten Teacher to join our Early Childhood team. The ideal candidate creates a structured, nurturing classroom environment where young learners feel safe, loved, and challenged. This teacher collaborates closely with colleagues, communicates effectively with families, and contributes to a positive, faith-centered school culture.

As a teacher in a Catholic school, you act as a representative of the Catholic Church to students, serving as both a role model and a communicator of the Church’s message. You are a ministerial employee, accountable to the principal and committed to upholding the educational policies of the Archdiocese of Chicago and the local school.

Responsibilities

• Create a warm, developmentally appropriate classroom rooted in routines, independence, and joy.
• Implement hands-on, play-based learning experiences aligned to early childhood standards.
• Build strong relationships with students and families.
• Support social-emotional development through modeling, guidance, and consistent expectations.
• Differentiate instruction to meet diverse learning needs, including small-group instruction.
• Collaborate with the Diverse Learners team and follow MTSS supports as needed.
• Integrate Catholic identity through daily prayer, virtues, and community-building.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and inviting classroom environment.
• Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress and classroom updates.
• Participate in professional development, staff meetings, and schoolwide events.
• Teach and act in accordance with Catholic doctrinal and moral teachings.
• Act as a role model for religious formation and represent the Archbishop of Chicago and the Catholic Church.
• Complete Catholic identity formation training and other required professional development.
• Lead and/or participate in religious instruction, ceremonies, rituals, or other religious activities as directed.
• Maintain accurate student attendance and academic records.
• Ensure a safe, orderly, and secure learning and working environment.
• Participate in the annual performance review.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding school personnel, students, and general school matters.
• Positively represent the school/parish at all events and in the public.
• Perform additional tasks assigned by the principal essential to the function of the position.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field (required).
• Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with Early Childhood or Elementary endorsement (preferred).
• Experience working with Kindergarten or early childhood students.
• Strong classroom management and communication skills.
• Commitment to inclusive, faith-centered education.
• Ability to collaborate with colleagues and contribute to a positive school culture.
• Must meet compliance with safe environment requirements.
• Must complete Catholic identity formation training.
• Practicing Catholic (preferred, required for religion teachers).

The following documentation is required for employment and to determine compensation:

• Transcripts
• Resume
• Teaching Licensure (PEL), if applicable/obtained
• Acceptance in alternative licensure program, if applicable
• Professional references

Benefits

The Archdiocese of Chicago offers a comprehensive total rewards package, including competitive compensation and benefit programs.

Pay

This position has a salary range of $38,527–$68,776 for a Lay employee and $35,686–$62,316. Pay within the range will be based on education, qualifications, experience, skills, geographic location, and organizational needs.

Why Join Children of Peace?

• Small class sizes
• Supportive leadership and collaborative staff
• Strong family partnerships
• Diverse student population and welcoming community
• Opportunities for professional growth
• A mission-driven environment rooted in faith, service, and love