Lead Early Childhood Teacher

Barnette Academy is a growing preschool in Bucktown centered on play-based learning and creating a warm, welcoming environment where children flourish. After an incredible first year, we are excited to continue growing and prepare to open a new classroom!

We are looking for Lead Teachers who are passionate about working with children ages 1–3 and excited to help shape a thoughtful, collaborative classroom environment. Ideal candidates are warm, dependable, and confident leading a classroom while building meaningful relationships with children, families, and coworkers.

At Barnette, we value creativity, teamwork, and child-centered learning. We are building a team of educators who are excited to grow alongside our school and help create a joyful early childhood experience for our families.

• Demonstrate the ability to identify children’s interests from observation and plan lessons based on those interests
• Understand how to combine direct instruction with play-based experiences initiated and directed by the child
• Empower parents and family members to be involved in the classroom and in contributing to their child’s educational experience
• Facilitate yearly conferences with families and complete biannual student assessments
• Communicate with parents and staff in a warm and professional manner
• Address challenges promptly and effectively, employing sound judgment and critical thinking
• Delegate tasks and provide feedback to classroom assistants
• Establish a caring, loving, and warm environment for all children in the classroom
• Attend occasional events or trainings outside of work hours

• Must be lead teacher qualified with at least 6 credits in Early Childhood Education
• Previous experience working with children in a classroom setting
• Ability to lift children, sit, kneel, and bend as necessary to interact with children and fulfill job duties
• Will be required to pass a background check
• Be up to date on all required vaccinations
• CPR/First Aid certified or willing to obtain certification within 3 months of hire date (Barnette will provide assistance)

• $45,000-$50,000 salary based on experience in the role and education/credentials
• 22 paid holidays off and 12 days of PTO
• Health insurance with employee contribution
• Yearly cost of living raises with opportunities for merit based bonuses
• Staff training and professional development assistance
• Opportunity for growth within our organization