Job Description
Preschool Lead Teacher
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📍 St. Charles, IL
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💲 $20.00 to $23.00 per Hour
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🕒 Full-Time
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Join Our Growing Early Childhood Education Team!
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We are seeking a passionate, nurturing, and qualified Preschool Lead Teacher to join our high-quality early childhood education center in St. Charles, Illinois.
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This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced educator who is committed to creating a positive learning environment where children can thrive socially, emotionally, and academically. If you meet Illinois DCFS Lead Teacher qualifications and are looking to secure a rewarding position before the upcoming school year, we encourage you to apply today.
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We are actively interviewing qualified candidates and moving quickly through the hiring process.
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What We Offer
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✅ Competitive Pay
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✅ Supportive and Collaborative Team Environment
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✅ Well-Equipped Classroom and Learning Resources
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✅ Professional Growth Opportunities
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✅ Stable Full-Time Position
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✅ Fast-Track Interview Process
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Position Overview
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As the Preschool Lead Teacher, you will be responsible for planning and implementing developmentally appropriate learning experiences, maintaining a safe and engaging classroom environment, and fostering positive relationships with children and families.
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You will play a key role in supporting children's growth and development while ensuring compliance with all licensing and program requirements.
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Key Responsibilities
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- Plan and implement age-appropriate educational activities and lesson plans
- Create a nurturing, safe, and engaging classroom environment
- Support children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development
- Maintain positive communication with families regarding student progress
- Manage classroom routines, schedules, and transitions effectively
- Observe and document children's development and milestones
- Maintain compliance with Illinois DCFS regulations and center policies
- Collaborate with fellow teachers and administrative staff
- Promote a positive and inclusive classroom culture
- Ensure health, safety, and supervision standards are consistently maintained
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Required Qualifications
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Candidates must meet Illinois DCFS Lead Teacher requirements under Section 407.140 through one of the following pathways:
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Option 1
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- Minimum 60 semester hours of college coursework from an accredited college or university
- At least 6 semester hours in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field
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Option 2
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- Minimum 30 semester hours of college coursework
- At least 1 year of experience working in a licensed childcare center
- Minimum 6 semester hours in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field
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Option 3
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- Valid Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential
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OR
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- Gateways to Opportunity Level 3 Credential (or higher)
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Additional Requirements
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- Ability to complete and pass all required background checks
- Ability to complete fingerprinting requirements
- Medical examination and TB clearance prior to start date
- Strong classroom management skills
- Professional, positive, and energetic communication style
- Passion for working with young children
- Reliable attendance and punctuality
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Preferred Qualifications
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- Previous Lead Teacher experience in a preschool or childcare setting
- Early Childhood Education degree or coursework beyond minimum requirements
- Experience implementing curriculum and lesson planning
- Strong family engagement and communication skills
- Knowledge of Illinois DCFS regulations and licensing requirements
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Ideal Candidate
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The ideal candidate:
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- Loves working with young children
- Creates engaging and developmentally appropriate learning experiences
- Brings warmth, patience, and professionalism to the classroom
- Works collaboratively with families and colleagues
- Maintains a high level of organization and accountability
- Is committed to helping children build confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning
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How to Apply
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Please submit your resume and include a brief note confirming your DCFS eligibility.