Lead Head Start Teacher 3-5

Mary Crane Center; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 42,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign-on bonus

Job summary

Mary Crane Center is hiring a Lead Teacher for our Head Start program. You will design developmentally appropriate lessons and foster family partnerships, guiding a classroom team to support children’s growth in all domains.

The role emphasizes strong communication, collaboration with staff, and commitment to inclusive early childhood education. A supportive, mission-driven workplace offers ongoing training and childcare resources.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or equivalent.
• Gateways ECE Credential Level 5 or PEL with EC Endorsement.
• Strong communication and classroom management skills.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver age-appropriate lessons aligned with Head Start standards.
• Foster family engagement and partner with families and community resources.
• Supervise and mentor assistant teachers and volunteers.
• Assess and document children's progress and maintain portfolios.
• Ensure a safe, inclusive, and engaging classroom environment.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team collaboration

Documentation

Bilingual Spanish

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education

Gateways ECE Credential Level 5

PEL with EC Endorsement

Job description

Description

Inspire Learning. Nurture Growth. Build Futures.

Do you believe every child deserves a strong start? Are you passionate about creating safe, engaging classrooms where children can explore, learn, and develop? If so, we’d love to welcome you to our team as a Lead Teacher in our Head Start program.

As a Lead Teacher, you’ll design and implement developmentally appropriate lessons that support children’s intellectual, emotional, social, and physical growth. You’ll foster strong family partnerships, encourage parent involvement, and help prepare children for lifelong success in school and beyond. New hires are eligible for a $1,500 sign on bonus.

What You’ll Do:

In the Classroom

• Plan and deliver age-appropriate lessons aligned with Head Start, NAEYC, and Creative Curriculum standards
• Model positive behavior and use effective guidance techniques
• Supervise and engage with children throughout daily routines and transitions
• Promote family-style dining and healthy habits
• Ensure a safe and supportive learning environment at all times

Assess and Document Learning

• Conduct regular assessments using tools like ESI-R, Creative Curriculum Checklists, and Ages & Stages Questionnaires
• Maintain detailed anecdotal records, portfolios, and documentation panels
• Prepare and organize materials and coordinate enriching field trips

Engage Families

• Communicate regularly with families through conferences, home visits, and daily updates
• Encourage family involvement in classroom and program activities
• Advocate for children and families, connecting them to community resources

Lead and Collaborate

• Supervise assistant teachers, aides, and volunteers, providing guidance and feedback
• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and agency committees
• Collaborate with Site Director, Education Coordinators, and Head Start staff on program quality and curriculum planning

Maintain the Environment

• Keep classrooms clean, organized, and stimulating
• Sanitize toys, equipment, and surfaces routinely
• Monitor and maintain classroom supplies and safety

Requirements

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education AND Gateways ECE Credential Level 5
• OR Registered Professional Educator License (PEL) with Early Childhood Endorsement

Skills & Qualifications

• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism
• Strong leadership, organizational, and time-management skills
• Collaborative team player committed to quality early childhood education
• Computer proficiency for documentation and communication
• Bilingual Spanish preferred

Physical & Work Environment Expectations

• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds and perform physical activities such as bending, kneeling, and reaching
• Comfortable working in a busy, child-focused environment with moderate to high noise levels
• Travel between multiple agency sites for meetings, trainings, and classroom support as needed

Why Join Us

• Be part of a mission-driven organization supporting children and families
• Work alongside a collaborative and passionate team
• Access ongoing training, professional growth, and meaningful partnerships
• Help shape futures, starting with the support children and families need today

Compensation & Benefits

Mary Crane Center offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes access to medical, dental, and vision insurance (HMO, PPO, and DPPO options available), paid time off, and other employee wellness programs. Eligibility varies by position and hours worked. Additional benefit details will be provided during the hiring process.

Ready to make a difference where it matters most?

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, veteran status, or disability.

Reasonable accommodations will be provided as required by law. To request accommodations, please contact 773-242-2881 x2886.