Lead Infant & Toddler Teachers

About the role

We have an exciting opportunity for Lead Infant & Toddler Teachers working in our State-of-the-Art facility. At The Gardner School of Naperville, we believe 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

• Lead and inspire your classroom with creativity, care, and excellence
• Mentor assistant teachers and model The Gardner School's core values: Children First, Trust, Innovation, and Make a Difference
• Build meaningful relationships with families and children
• Plan engaging, developmentally appropriate lessons that spark curiosity
• Maintain safety, compliance, and a joyful classroom environment

Qualifications

• CDA or Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education or related, with at least 6 credit hours in ECE (required); Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or related degree, with at least 6 credit hours in ECE (preferred)
• Current CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire)
• 2+ years of early childhood education experience (lead or co-lead experience preferred)
• Eligible to work in the U.S. without sponsorship
• Regular and reliable attendance
• Intermediate PC skills and proficiency with general administrative tasks
• 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 a classroom leadership including speaking, hearing, reading, writing, focusing attention, and building relationships
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation

Pay

The starting pay range is $18.70-$23.10 per hour, based on education and experience.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• 401(k) with company match
• Childcare tuition discount
• Paid holidays
• Professional development opportunities
• Ongoing professional development and training
• Opportunities for advancement within our growing organization
• A supportive, mission-driven culture