Lead Preschool Teacher

HirefinderRPO; St. Charles (IL); On-site; USD 32,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Supportive team environment

Well-equipped classroom

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

HirefinderRPO is seeking a passionate Preschool Lead Teacher for our St. Charles, Illinois center. You will plan developmentally appropriate activities, maintain a safe and engaging classroom, and partner with families to support children's growth.

The ideal candidate will meet Illinois DCFS Lead Teacher qualifications, have prior lead teaching experience in early childhood, and bring warmth, organization, and strong communication to a collaborative team.

Qualifications

• Must meet Illinois DCFS Lead Teacher requirements under licensing rules.
• Options outline: 60 semester hours or 30 hours with experience and 6 hours in ECE or related field; CDA or Gateways Level 3 accepted.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Skills

Lead teacher

Classroom management

Child development knowledge

Family engagement

Compliance with licensing

Education

60 semester hours coursework

6 semester hours in ECE/related field

CDA Credential

Gateways Level 3 Credential

Job description

Join Our Growing Early Childhood Education Team!

We are seeking a passionate, nurturing, and qualified Preschool Lead Teacher to join our high-quality early childhood education center in St. Charles, Illinois.

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.

We are actively interviewing qualified candidates and moving quickly through the hiring process.

What We Offer

Supportive and Collaborative Team Environment

Well-Equipped Classroom and Learning Resources

Professional Growth Opportunities

Position Overview

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.

You will play a key role in supporting children's growth and development while ensuring compliance with all licensing and program requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• 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

Required Qualifications

Candidates must meet Illinois DCFS Lead Teacher requirements under Section 407.140 through one of the following pathways:

Option 1

• 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

Option 2

• 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

Option 3

• Valid Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential

OR

• Gateways to Opportunity Level 3 Credential (or higher)

Additional Requirements

• Ability to complete and pass all required background checks
• Ability to complete fingerprinting requirements
• Medical examination and TB clearance prior to start date
• Professional, positive, and energetic communication style
• Passion for working with young children
• Reliable attendance and punctuality

Preferred Qualifications

• 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

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate:

• 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