Lead Teacher

The Goddard School; Buffalo Grove (IL); Hybrid; USD 36,000 - 56,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

No nights and weekends

Childcare discounts

Professional development

Tuition reimbursement

401(k)

Dental insurance

Health insurance

Paid time off

Vision insurance

Training & development

Job summary

The Goddard School located at 1050 Barclay Boulevard Buffalo Grove, IL 60089 seeks a passionate Lead Teacher for the 12–24 month age group. You will implement a developmentally appropriate curriculum using our Wonder of Learning® program and lead daily activities to inspire young minds in a supportive team setting.

We value growth and collaboration; this role offers a positive, engaging workplace where you help children become joyful, confident learners ready for school and life.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; associate's or bachelor's in Early Childhood Education preferred.
• CDA credential preferred.
• 1–2 years of experience with young children in licensed childcare/preschool.
• Pre-service training completed as required by state.
• Develops relationships and communicates effectively with children, families, and staff.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Lead curriculum and instruction using Wonder of Learning® for 12–24 month olds.
• Create and maintain a safe, nurturing, inclusive classroom.
• Communicate openly with families about progress and activities.
• Ensure health and safety standards and licensing compliance.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and training.
• Observe and document children's learning to inform activities.
• Support Assistant and Resource Teachers as a team.
• Model positive behavior guidance for social-emotional growth.

Skills

Communication

Child development

Teamwork

Health & Safety

Education

High school diploma

Associate's or Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education

CDA credential

Job description

Benefits:

• No nights and weekends
• Childcare discounts
• Recognition programs
• Professional development and CDA tuition reimbursement
• Tuition reimbursement
• 401(k)
• Competitive salary
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Training & development
• Vision insurance

The Goddard School® located at: 1050 Barclay Boulevard Buffalo Grove, IL 60089 is seeking a passionate Lead Teacher for 12-24 month age group. At our School, we put our teachers first because they put our students first. Join us to create a nurturing environment for young children by implementing an engaging, developmentally appropriate curriculum using our proprietary Wonder of Learning® program. Lead daily activities, inspire young minds and collaborate with a supportive team.

Nurture your growth. Empower your success. Join our welcoming community, where you can grow and make a real difference in children's lives every day. If you’re passionate about education and children, and ready to advance your career, we’d love to hear from you!

Lead Teacher Key Responsibilities:

• Curriculum and Instruction: Implement age-appropriate lesson plans and activities using our proprietary Wonder of Learning® curriculum to engage and support each child’s growth
• Classroom Management: Create and maintain a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom environment
• Family Communication: Maintain open, effective and positive communication with families and guardians about their child’s progress and daily activities
• Health and Safety: Supervise children during indoor and outdoor activities to uphold health and safety standards, licensing regulations and ensure their well-being
• Professional Development: Participate actively in ongoing professional development and training opportunities to enhance teaching skillsAssessment and Documentation: Observe, assess and document children’s learning and development to inform activities and share insights with families
• Team Collaboration: Support Assistant Teachers and Resource Teachers, fostering a collaborative and positive team environment.
• Behavior Guidance: Model and implement positive guidance strategies to support social-emotional growth and conflict resolution.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma required; associate's or bachelor's in Early Childhood Education preferred
• Child Development Associate (CDA) preferred
• 1-2 years of previous experience working with young children in a licensed childcare or preschool setting preferred
• Has successfully completed state-required pre-service training
• Develops relationships and communicates effectively with children, families and faculty members
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. in connection with the handling of children

If you’re an energetic, nurturing person looking for a supportive and fun workplace, join us! Our School offers a premium educational experience in state-of-the-art facilities, helping every child become a joyful, confident learner ready for success in school and life.