Assistant Teachers

TGS Holdings, LLC; Oakbrook Terrace (IL); On-site; USD 17,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

The Gardner School in Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois is seeking an Assistant Teacher to support Lead Teachers with age‑appropriate curriculum and daily activities in a developmentally rich preschool setting.

You will actively engage children in play and learning, nurture emotional and behavioral growth, and collaborate with families and team members to ensure a calm, organized classroom that meets safety guidelines and licensing requirements.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Eligible to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.
• Ability to read, write and communicate in English fluently.
• Meet state licensing education/experience requirements.

Responsibilities

• Assist Lead Teacher with age-appropriate curriculum.
• Engage children during play, learning and transitions.
• Support emotional/behavioral development and safety.
• Communicate with families and collaborate with the team.

Skills

Strong communication

Engage with children

Team collaboration

Time management

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Basic PC skills

Job description

It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing! We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business. We have an exciting opportunity for an Assistant Teacher to work in our State‑of‑the‑Art facility. At The Gardner School, you will be part of a caring, fun, dynamic group of professional teachers that thrive on providing exceptional educational experiences. You will work in an environment that values your contributions and provides you with the resources you need to apply high‑quality, developmentally appropriate programs. Your experience and expertise are highly valued, your contributions are recognized, and your professional goals are supported. If you have a desire and passion to make a difference in the lives of children and parents, The Gardner School is the place for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Classroom Support & Instruction Assist the Lead Teacher in implementing age‑appropriate curriculum and activities that align with each child’s developmental needs.
• Actively engage with children during play, learning activities, and transitions.
• Offer nurturing guidance that supports each child’s emotional and behavioral development.
• Help adapt activities based on observation of individual child interests and needs.

Environment & Daily Operations

• Ensure a clean, organized, and safe classroom by supporting daily routines, hygiene, and sanitation procedures.
• Follow health and safety guidelines, including diapering, feeding, and supervising children at all times.
• Help manage classroom materials and contribute to a calm, positive environment.

Family & Team Collaboration

• Maintain respectful, supportive relationships with parents and families.
• Participate in ongoing communication and classroom updates as directed by the Lead Teacher.
• Collaborate with teaching team members and school leaders to ensure consistency and support across classrooms.
• Uphold a professional, team‑oriented mindset at all times.

Compliance & Professionalism

• Adhere to all state licensing regulations and The Gardner School’s policies and procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding child and school information.
• Demonstrate consistent, reliable attendance and a commitment to ongoing training and development.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (required).
• Eligible to work in the U.S. without sponsorship (required).
• Ability to reliably community to school’s location.
• 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.
• Meet all applicable state licensing requirements for education and experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• 1+ years of experience working with children ages 6 weeks to 5 years.
• Passion for early childhood education and a nurturing, joyful approach to care.
• Interest in growing within a supportive, mission‑driven preschool environment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with children, peers, and families.
• Basic understanding of early childhood development principles.
• Strong time management and multitasking abilities.
• Positive attitude and problem‑solving mindset.
• Intermediate PC or administrative skills.

Physical Requirements

• Frequently lifts or moves weight as in lifting, carrying, and holding children and infants of 10 to 60 pounds.
• Ability to bend, reach, and move freely throughout the classroom.
• Ability to operate a computer, phone, and classroom/office equipment.
• Regular and reliable attendance.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.

The Gardner School is an academically focused preschool for ages 6 Weeks to 5 Years. We have created a rich learning environment that stimulates our students’ physical, social, emotional, and intellectual growth. We provide extensive training, orientation, and continuing education programs. We have locations in 8 states and are growing. We strongly believe in a strong internal path to promotions, rewarding our amazing teachers with opportunities to gain experience within our privately‑owned company. Above all, we choose faculty members who love the early childhood profession and have a strong, positive curiosity about life that sparks confidence and joy in those around.

The Gardner School extends equal employment opportunities to qualified applicants and employees on an equal basis regardless of an individual’s age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other reason prohibited by law.

The Gardner School provides children with a nurturing start for a successful future with a premier preschool experience for children. Built on decades of expertise, we promise to provide a school community that is safe, purposeful, and enriching. This commitment is fulfilled through the efforts of our engaged team members, the growth of thriving children, and the satisfaction of happy families. Together we provide exceptional care and education differentiated by our people, program, and promise.