Lead Teachers Infants Toddlers and Preschool

The Goddard School; Northbrook (IL); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in early childhood education is seeking passionate Lead Teachers for their Infant, Toddler, and Preschool classrooms. This role emphasizes punctuality and consistency, ensuring a nurturing environment for children. With a strong commitment to professional development and a supportive leadership team, this opportunity offers a $1,000 signing bonus and various performance-based incentives. Join a community that values its educators and fosters meaningful connections with families. Your journey in shaping young minds starts here, where every day is an opportunity to make a difference.

Benefits

401(k) matching

Bonus based on performance

Competitive salary

Dental insurance

Employee discounts

Health insurance

Opportunity for advancement

Paid time off

Signing bonus

Tuition assistance

Qualifications

• Must have CDA or a Bachelor's degree in early childhood or related field.
• Experience in licensed childcare center is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Open the classroom with a calm and prepared presence.
• Plan and implement engaging, age-appropriate activities.
• Build strong relationships with children and families.

Skills

Child Development

Communication Skills

Team Collaboration

Cultural Sensitivity

Education

CDA

Some college in ECE

2 years of experience in childcare

Bachelor's degree in early childhood

Job description

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Bonus based on performance
• Competitive salary
• Dental insurance
• Employee discounts
• Health insurance
• Opportunity for advancement
• Paid time off
• Signing bonus
• Training & development
• Tuition assistance
• Vision insurance

Job Overview:

We’re hiring Lead Teachers to join our Infant, Toddler, and Preschool classrooms this June—all positions are for opening shifts starting at 7:30 AM. Punctuality is a must in this role—we are a ratio-based school, and consistency matters deeply for both our children and our team. There is a signing bonus that will be paid out monthly for 5 months based on performance and attendance!

Apply today and discover what it’s like to work for an employer that truly values its teachers. YOU are the heart of our School—and you’ll feel that from day one.

Benefits & Perks at The Goddard School of Deerfield:

• $1,000 sign-on bonus
• Up to $500 annual gas reimbursement
• Performance bonuses throughout the year
• Blue Cross Blue Shield Medical, dental, vision insurance
• 15 Paid time off days your first year + paid holidays
• Deep Childcare discounts
• 401(k) with match!
• Tuition reimbursement + CDA credentialing
• Access to Goddard Systems University (IACET-accredited) CEUs
• Strong support from leadership, including daily prep and resource time
• Teacher appreciation programs and year-round recognition

Lead Teacher Responsibilities:

• Open the classroom each day with a calm, reliable, and prepared presence
• Maintain a safe, healthy, nurturing environment
• Build strong relationships with children and families
• Plan and implement engaging, age-appropriate activities
• Support children’s emotional development and provide positive guidance
• Respect and celebrate cultural and ethnic diversity
• Observe, assess, and document developmental progress
• Attend faculty meetings, in-service trainings, and growth opportunities

Educational Qualifications:

You must meet at least one of the following:

• CDA
• Some college with commitment to complete 6 hours in ECE (we'll pay for it!)
• 2 years of experience in a licensed childcare center
• Bachelor's degree in early childhood or related field

Schedule:

• Opening shift begins at 7:30 AM
• We typically follow a 9-hour workday
• Flexibility is appreciated—occasional longer days may be needed and will be compensated
• We host monthly virtual meetings after hours and 2–3 weekend events annually

About The Goddard School:

With over 600 schools nationwide and 35+ years in early childhood education, The Goddard School is a nationally recognized leader in play-based learning. Our Deerfield location is proud to uphold Goddard’s high standards of care, safety, and curriculum—while offering a close-knit, family-oriented work environment where teachers are trusted, empowered, and appreciated.

This is your moment. The joy of childhood is built on moments of wonder—and your career can be, too. Join us and be part of something meaningful every single day.