Lead Teacher WIU Infant and Preschool Center - Western Illinois University

Lead Teacher of the WIU Infant and Preschool Center

Appointment: August 2026

Responsibilities: The Lead Teacher will create a safe, engaging, and nurturing learning environment and deliver high‑quality, play‑based instruction to infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school‑aged children at the WIU Infant and Preschool Center in Macomb. Duties include leading and teaching daily activities, fostering language and social‑emotional development, assisting children in developing physical, cognitive, and self‑care skills, collaborating with families and staff, and providing classroom instruction and assessment for children ages birth to five.

The Lead Teacher will also model effective teaching strategies, lesson planning, classroom management, student assessment, and support college students in their professional development. The position involves community outreach support as directed by the Center Director and compliance with standards set by Head Start, the Illinois State Board of Education, the Illinois Department of Early Childhood, and the National Association for the Education of Young Children.

Rank & Salary: 9.5‑month appointment; $29,950 – $33,280 per year, commensurate with experience.

Benefits:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance plans
• Life insurance and accident benefits
• Supplemental long‑term disability and retirement plans (403(b) and 457(b))
• Paid time‑off, employee assistance program, tuition waiver options, and local discounts
• Participation in the State Universities Retirement System (SURS)

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field
• Experience working in a licensed early learning center
• Strong understanding of child development and early childhood education principles
• Ability to plan and implement developmentally appropriate practices for preschool‑aged children
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration with children, families, staff, and university students
• Proficiency with technology for assessments, documentation, and reporting
• Current registration in Gateways to Opportunity and commitment to ongoing professional development
• Current First Aid/CPR/Mandated Reporter Training certification (or willingness to obtain before employment)
• Ability to meet all Illinois DCFS licensing requirements
• Physical ability to actively participate in classroom activities, including lifting, bending, standing, and supporting children throughout the day

Preferred Qualifications

• Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) in Early Childhood Education and/or Illinois Early Childhood Credential Level 5
• Experience in inclusive early childhood settings and supporting children with disabilities, including IEP implementation
• Knowledge of social‑emotional learning and positive behavior supports
• Experience mentoring or supporting teacher candidates and practicum students
• Experience with family engagement and community outreach initiatives
• Familiarity with assessment and documentation systems used in early childhood programs

Complete applications must include:

Applicants may submit their documents online or through the WIU Employment portal. Screening will begin on June 1, 2026.

Western Illinois University is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, including minorities, veterans, women, and individuals with disabilities.

For assistance with the online application system, contact the Office of Human Resources at (309) 298‑1971 or hr‑recruitment.