Lead Teacher; Summer

Are you off for the summer and looking for a temporary teaching assignment? Join Chicago Commons for Summer 2026!

Chicago Commons is hiring for all four locations:

• 1814 S. Paulina, Chicago, IL 60608 (Guadalupano Family Center)

• 1653 W. 43rd St., Chicago, IL 60609 (Paulo Freire Family Center)

• 1633 N. Hamlin, Chicago, IL 60647 (Taylor Family Center)

At Chicago Commons, we believe the Reggio‑Inspired approach to learning mirrors our values. Children, families, and teachers work together to create a dynamic, problem‑solving learning environment that encourages critical thinking and creativity.

The lead teacher is responsible for developing a classroom atmosphere where children can grow and develop in a safe and positive learning space. Candidates must have a passion for creating a safe and nurturing environment for children and the ability to lead the classroom team.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or related field.
• Gateway IL Inft & Tdler certification.
• Cred Level 5.

The employee must be able to read and write English proficiently.

• Candidates must regularly operate a word‑processing system and therefore must be able to read, produce, and transmit data on such a system.

• Contribute to the development of the overall agency and center educational plan.
• Lead classroom teams in creating an atmosphere in which children can grow and develop; develop a welcoming environment and emphasize the child’s importance.
• Introduce, implement, and evaluate developmentally appropriate activities for young children (e.g., Self Image, Language/Literacy Development, Music and Movement, Social Studies, Science, Math, Art, Large/Small Motor Activities, In‑Depth Projects).
• Supervise and interact with all children’s activities.
• Train staff and prepare performance evaluations with the assistance of the Site Director.
• Research, implement, and evaluate curriculum methods and classroom management strategies.
• Prepare classroom materials in advance of children’s arrival and maintain a clean classroom environment.
• Assist with ordering supplies needed for the program.
• Recommend maintenance and repairs as needed.
• Develop strong partnerships with families and attend home visits.
• Conduct parent‑teacher conference assessments, participate in family reviews, and IFSP/IEP meetings.
• Lead the implementation of the Reggio Emilia Philosophy, focusing on in‑depth studies and classroom explorations.
• Maintain reports on children’s growth and development for all students.
• Conduct weekly team meetings and attend parent meetings and in‑service training.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

The employee is regularly required to speak and read English proficiently, operate a word‑processing system, stand, walk, reach, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, and occasionally lift up to 15 pounds. Specific vision requirements include the ability to see at close range.

To learn more about Chicago Commons' benefits package, please click HERE
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Gateway IL Inft & Tdler
Cred Level 5

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