Lead Teacher- Early Childhood

Children of America; Illinois; On-site; USD 25,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

50% childcare discount

Career advancement opportunities

Professional development assistance

Medical/dental/vision insurance

Job summary

Children of America is seeking a Lead Teacher in Early Childhood Education. The role involves leading daily instruction, developing engaging activities, and creating a nurturing classroom aligned with COA’s Mind and Body Matters curriculum. You will support children's development and partner with families to ensure a high-quality learning experience.

The position offers hourly pay and opportunities for professional growth, with benefits including a childcare discount and competitive compensation.

Qualifications

• CDA credential OR 60 semester hours with at least 6 in Early Childhood Education or related field.
• Minimum of one year of experience in licensed childcare/early childhood education.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification or ability to obtain per state regulations.
• Must meet all applicable state and local childcare licensing requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily classroom instruction using COA’s Mind and Body Matters curriculum.
• Develop and implement age-appropriate lesson plans and activities.
• Create a safe, organized classroom environment and positive guidance.
• Build relationships with children and families and communicate with parents and staff.
• Collaborate with educators to ensure continuity of care and high-quality learning.

Education

CDA credential OR 60 semester hours with at least 6 in ECE

CPR and First Aid certification

State/local licensing compliance

Job description

Lead Teacher – Early Childhood Education

Build Young Minds. Inspire Growth. Make a Difference Every Day.

Hourly Pay: $18.00–$21.00 | 50% Childcare Discount | Career Advancement Opportunities

About Children of America

At Children of America (COA), we believe great teachers do more than educate children - they inspire confidence, encourage curiosity, and create the foundation for lifelong learning.

Join a nationally accredited early childhood education organization with 65+ locations across 18 states. At COA, you'll be part of a collaborative team that values your experience, supports your professional development, and gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families.

Our programs serve children ages 6 weeks to 12 years, including Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Pre‑K, Before & After Care, and Summer Camp.

We believe our people are our greatest strength. We encourage our educators to bring their whole selves to work, share their ideas, and grow their careers in an environment where their contributions matter.

Why Build Your Career at Children of America?

We recognize that great educators deserve a workplace that invests in them.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Competitive Pay: $18.00–$21.00 per hour, based on experience and qualifications.
• 50% Employee Childcare Discount: Meaningful savings on childcare for eligible employees.
• Career Advancement: Opportunities to grow into Lead Teacher, Assistant Director, Director, and other leadership roles.
• Professional Development: Educational assistance and T.E.A.C.H. scholarship partnerships.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, life, accident, and disability insurance.
• Financial Security: 401(k) retirement plan.
• Work‑Life Benefits: Paid vacation, sick time, and holidays.
• Recognition & Rewards: Employee referral bonuses and recognition programs.

What You’ll Do as a Lead Teacher

As a Lead Teacher, you’ll take an active role in creating an engaging, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate classroom where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Lead daily classroom instruction using COA’s Mind and Body Matters curriculum.
• Develop and implement engaging, age‑appropriate lesson plans and learning activities.
• Create a safe, organized, and positive classroom environment that encourages exploration and development.
• Support children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development.
• Build meaningful relationships with children and establish strong partnerships with their families.
• Communicate regularly and professionally with parents, management, and teaching team members.
• Observe, document, and communicate children’s developmental progress using classroom technology.
• Establish consistent classroom routines, expectations, and positive guidance strategies.
• Collaborate with fellow educators to ensure continuity of care and a high‑quality learning experience.
• Bring creativity, enthusiasm, patience, and passion to your classroom every day.

What Makes a Great COA Lead Teacher?

We’re looking for educators who are passionate about early childhood development and understand the important role they play in shaping young lives.

Successful candidates demonstrate:

• A genuine passion for working with children and supporting their development.
• Strong classroom leadership, organization, and decision‑making skills.
• The ability to create positive relationships with children, families, and colleagues.
• Flexibility, adaptability, and a solutions‑oriented mindset.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• A commitment to maintaining a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment.
• A desire to continue learning and growing professionally.

Minimum Qualifications

• CDA credential OR 60 semester hours of college credit, including at least 6 semester hours in Early Childhood Education or a related field, as applicable to state licensing requirements.
• Minimum of one year of experience working in a licensed childcare or early childhood education setting.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification, or ability to obtain as required by state regulations.
• Must meet all applicable state and local childcare licensing requirements.

Our Mission. Our Values. Our Commitment.

At Children of America, our culture is built around five shared values:

• Accountability: We take ownership, follow through, and continuously improve.
• Collaboration: We work together to create the best outcomes for children, families, and our teams.
• Growth Mindset: We embrace opportunities to learn, develop, and become better educators.
• Integrity: We lead with honesty, respect, and ethical decision‑making.
• Consistency: We create dependable, structured environments where children and families feel supported.

Compensation & Equal Employment Opportunity

The anticipated hourly pay range is $18.00–$21.00. Final compensation is determined by experience, qualifications, geographic location, and internal equity. Additional incentives may be available for eligible positions.

Children of America is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to any status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. This position is subject to applicable childcare licensing requirements and employment regulations.

All job offers are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check and the submission of the required state documents.