Lead Teacher, Junior Kindergarten - School of St. Mary - Lake Forest

4 Year Old Lead Teacher, Junior Kindergarten

The School of St. Mary, a vibrant Catholic learning community in Lake Forest, Illinois, is seeking a dedicated and nurturing Preschool Teacher for its four-year-old (PK4) program. Our preschool serves over 100 students across PK2, PK3, and PK4, offering both half-day and full-day options. We are committed to fostering the spiritual, social, emotional, and academic growth of each child in a faith-filled environment.

The ideal candidate is a joyful and engaging educator who understands early childhood development and creates a classroom where young learners thrive through purposeful play, exploration, and meaningful relationships.

Responsibilities:

• Design and implement a developmentally appropriate PK4 curriculum rooted in hands-on, center-based learning
• Create engaging, meaningful learning centers that promote creativity, independence, and collaboration
• Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs of learners
• Foster a warm, structured classroom environment that supports positive behavior and social-emotional growth
• Collaborate closely with teaching partners to ensure a cohesive and effective classroom experience
• Communicate regularly and effectively with parents regarding student progress and classroom activities
• Integrate Catholic values and teachings into daily classroom life
• Observe and assess student development and adjust instruction accordingly

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field (required)
• Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (or ability to obtain)
• Strong understanding of child development and best practices in early childhood education
• Experience with differentiated instruction and center-based learning
• Excellent classroom management and organizational skills
• Strong collaboration and communication skills
• Commitment to fostering a faith-filled, inclusive, and nurturing classroom environment
• Practicing Catholic preferred, or willingness to support the mission of Catholic education

Why Join the School of St. Mary?

• A thriving and well-established preschool program
• Collaborative faculty and staff
• Strong sense of community rooted in faith and service
• Opportunities for professional growth and development
• Supportive parent community
• 1-6 student-teacher ratio

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and references to Kathy Thompson, kthompson. The School of St. Mary is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and faith-filled educational community.