Lead Infant, Toddler, & Two's Teachers

About the role

At The Gardner School of Schaumburg, 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

Benefits

• Competitive Pay: Starting pay range of $19.50 – $24.15 per hour, based on education and experience
• Comprehensive Benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance; paid time off; 401(k) with company match; childcare tuition discount; paid holidays; and professional development opportunities
• Career Growth: Ongoing professional development and training, opportunities for advancement within our growing organization, access to our company-sponsored CDA program, and a supportive, mission-driven culture

Qualifications

• Education/Certification: CDA or Associate's degree with at least 6 credit hours in Early Childhood Education (required); Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field with at least 6 credit hours in Early Childhood Education (preferred)
• Current CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain upon hire)
• Experience: 2+ years of early childhood education experience (lead or co-lead experience preferred)

Requirements

• 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 classroom leadership including speaking, hearing, reading, writing, focusing attention, and building relationships
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English fluently, sufficient to communicate effectively with students, families, and staff, implement curriculum and safety procedures, and complete written reports
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation