Teacher ( 0-3)

Brightpoint invites you to join our team of mission-driven staff who share a common vision: an equitable world where all children and families thrive in strong communities. As a leader in the human services sector for 140 years, we aim to advance the well-being of children by investing in families and strengthening communities through data-informed, collaborative, and preventative solutions.

About the role

The Early Childhood Teacher is a critical member of the Scott Early Learning Center team, using Head Start, Early Head Start, and Creative Curriculum® to enhance the physical, emotional, and cognitive growth of children through play and hands-on experiences. You will develop individualized lesson plans and meet with parents to support the best outcomes for your students. As an NAEYC-accredited and ExceleRate Gold Circle of Quality-designated center, you’ll be part of a cohesive team with supportive, high-quality supervision.

Responsibilities

• Participate in classroom curriculum implementation to support high-quality teaching and learning practices, reflecting mandated elements, parental and cultural influences, and promoting social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development.
• Fulfill education requirements for children in assigned classroom, including all required screenings.
• Assess children and evaluate and document results.
• Collaborate with the teaching team to establish classroom guidelines and goals, contributing ideas for lesson plans.
• Conduct small group, large group, and individualized activities.
• Actively supervise and ensure the safety and wellbeing of all children in indoor and outdoor environments.
• Maintain knowledge of therapeutic and educational approaches in early education.
• Ensure safety rules are observed and guard against harmful situations on field trips, walking trips, and the playground.
• Prepare supplies and environment for activities.

Requirements

• For Teacher (0-3 year olds): Associate's Degree in Child Development or a closely related field with 18+ hours of ECE credits OR Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) and enrollment in a college program in Child Development, Early Childhood Education, or a closely related field with at least 30 credit hours completed, including 12 hours in Early Childhood Education.
• Ability to obtain an Illinois Gateways to Opportunity Early Childhood Education Level 4 credential within 12 months of employment.
• Ability to obtain an Illinois Gateways to Opportunity Infant Toddler Level 4 credential within 12 months of employment.
• Minimum of 1 year of experience working with children and/or families. (Candidates without the required degree/credentials may be considered with an approved educational plan).

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Three scheduled weeks of paid time off each year (Spring, Summer, Winter) and additional flexible paid leave that accrues based on tenure.
• 11 paid holidays.
• Supplemental insurance options.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Access to leadership development opportunities and one-on-one mentorship through the Emerging Leaders program.
• Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).

Pay

Salary range is $42,000–$46,000. Offers are commensurate with experience, and bilingual candidates may receive additional compensation.

Schedule

Full-time, salaried position. The center is open Monday–Friday, 7:30 AM–5:30 PM; assigned shifts will vary.