Assistant Teacher (0 to 3)

This position is located at NIA Family Center, 744 N. Monticello Ave, Chicago, IL

Benefits of working with Chicago Commons:

• $750.00 signing bonus payable after 30 days of employment. 
• Located in accessible communities(Pilsen, Back of the Yards, West Humbolt Park) 
• Employer Paid Life Insurance, Employer Paid STD Insurance, Employer Paid LTD Insurance
• 403b Retirement & Savings
• Generous Paid Time Off
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Chicago Commons provides support for the entire family through our Family Hub Division.
• Break out lunch spaces that focus on (wellness and health) for our teachers!
• Pet Benefits
• Credit Union Membership
• Looking to GROW as a teacher, Chicago Commons offers individualized professional development support.Start your career with US and Grow with US!
• 7.5 hours day  

• To learn more about Chicago Commons' benefits package, please click HERE.

At Chicago Commons, we believe the Reggio-Inspired approach to learning is one that mirrors our values. The Reggio-inspired approach to education is where children, families, and teachers work together to create a dynamic and problem-solving approach to learning. Our teachers aim to empower children to explore and learn in a unique environment that encourages a child's critical thinking and creativity. 

Our early childhood program serves as the backbone for many at-risk Chicago communities, including West Humboldt Park, Pilsen, Bronzeville, and New City/Back of the Yards. High rates of poverty and limited educational and economic resources impact these neighborhoods. 

 POSITION SUMMARY:

The assistant teacher assists the lead teacher in 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 to receive a quality education. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

(These include but are not limited to the following. The company reserves the right to add to, delete, change or modify the essential duties and responsibilities at any time.)

• Partners with the lead teacher to develop a classroom environment that is a welcoming learning environment for children and their families.
• Assists lead teacher in planning, implementing and evaluating developmentally appropriate activities for young children including the following activities: Self Image, Language/Literacy Development, Music and Movement, Social Studies, Science, Math, Art, Large/Small Motor Activities, and In-Depth Projects.
• Supervises and interacts with all children’s activities.
• Develops strong partnerships with the families.
• Assumes responsibility for the classroom in the absence of the lead teacher.
• Attends home visits and conducts parent-teacher conference assessment reviews, as needed.
• Participates in Family Reviews and IFSP/IEP meetings, as needed.
• Shares responsibility for preparation and clean-up of all classroom activities.
• Assists with the responsibility of ordering supplies needed for the program.
• Maintains reports on children’s growth and development.
• Attends and participates in parent meetings, in-service training, and weekly team meetings.
• Assists with implementation of the Reggio Emilia Philosophy, focusing on in-depth studies and classroom explorations.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

(To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.)

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development or 30 college credit hours with a minimum of 15 credit hours in early childhood or child development; at least one year of experience in an early learning setting preferred.

TECHNICAL SKILLS:

While performing the duties of this job, 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

EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS:

• Successfully complete a pre-employment drug screening.
• Successfully complete all required DCFS criminal background checks.
• Provide proof of required education or credentials.
• Verify previous employment and work history.

Applicants may review information regarding disqualifying criminal offenses under DCFS Disqualifying Convictions: Section 385 Appx.A

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Candidates must occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds and are frequently required to stand, walk, reach with hands and arms, and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl.

COMPENSATION:

An attractive and competitive compensation and benefits package will be available commensurate with qualifications and experience.

To learn more about Chicago Commons' benefits package, please click HERE.