Mary Crane Center·Chicago, Illinois
As a Lead Teacher, you will create a nurturing classroom environment and guide children's growth through developmentally appropriate lessons. You will also engage with families and collaborate with a teaching team to ensure quality education.
Description $1,500 Sign-On Bonus + Full Benefits + Leadership Role
We’re hiring Lead Teachers for our Head Start classrooms.
This role is ideal for someone who enjoys leading a classroom, supporting a team, and creating a structured, engaging environment where children can thrive.
What You’ll Do as a Lead Teacher Lead and manage a preschool classroom Plan and implement daily lessons using Creative Curriculum Support children’s development across all areas (social, emotional, cognitive) Build strong relationships with families through communication and conferences Supervise and support Assistant Teachers and classroom staff What You’ll Get $1,500 sign-on bonus Medical, dental, and vision insurance Paid time off Professional development and leadership growth opportunities A collaborative team environment
Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education or Child Development Gateways Level 5 ECE + Infant/Toddler Credential Strong classroom management and leadership skills Ability to manage documentation, assessments, and compliance Why This Role This is a leadership role within the classroom. You’ll guide both children and staff, with support from leadership and a structured program model.
Apply today to lead a classroom where your work has real impact.
Mary Crane Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, veteran status, or disability. Reasonable accommodations will be provided as required by law. To request accommodations, please contact 773-242-2881 x2886.
Market context
Illinois classroom teacher roles are typically in steady demand, especially in districts seeking candidates who can support diverse student needs and communicate clearly with families and staff. This type of role is competitive because employers often look for classroom experience plus related backgrounds such as sociology, psychology, counseling, or education, and bilingual skills in English, Spanish, or Portuguese can strengthen an application. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform to save research time, then tailor your resume to highlight public speaking experience and weekend availability if you have it.