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The Assistant Teacher will foster a love of learning in students while collaborating with families and community partners to create a supportive environment. They are responsible for cultivating academic success, resilience, and a sense of belonging for every child.
Requirements summary
Candidates must hold a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or an associate degree and have six months to one year of related experience. Additionally, they must obtain an ISBE Paraprofessional Certificate and a Gateways to Opportunity Early Childhood Education Credential Level 4 within specified timeframes.
associate degreeprofessional certificateTeamworkCommunicationAdaptabilityCritical thinkingClassroom managementCommunity buildingEarly childhood educationFamily collaborationStudent engagementInfant and toddler care
Job description
We're Looking for a Rock Star Teacher Assistant!
Are you ready to make a real difference? We’re on the lookout for extraordinary Teacher Assistants who’s not just passionate about education, but is also deeply committed to building strong, connected families and powerful communities where children truly come first. This is more than just a job— it’s a mission.
Why You'll Love Working with Us
Make a
REAL
Impact: This isn't your average job. You're shaping the future by empowering students, supporting families, and building a stronger community where children come first
Flexible &
Supportive
Environment: We prioritize work-life balance and believe in creating a work atmosphere where you can grow and thrive.
Professional
Growth: We invest in your development! With continuous learning opportunities, you’ll grow your skills and passion while making a meaningful difference.
Collaborative
Team: Work with a supportive, like-minded group of educators and community partners who share your vision for a better future.
Be
Part of
Something
Bigger: This is not just a job— it’s a movement to transform communities and ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Sign-on Bonus - $1,500 Hiring Bonus for external candidates (50% after 90 days of employment and 50% after one year of employment)
We offer an extensive benefits package that adds value to your total compensation. Our benefits include:
Health, dental and vision insurance plans with company contribution of 95% for single coverage
401k with company match
Generous PTO – first year - 23 days, the second year - 28 days, the third year and on - 35 days
11 Paid Holidays and 1 Floating Holiday
Tuition Reimbursement
Flexible Spending Account
Company Paid STD & LTD Insurance
Company Paid Life Insurance
Your Mission, Should You Choose to Accept It
Ignite the
Spark: Foster a love of learning that empowers students to dream big, think critically, and grow as individuals.
Benefits
Health insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Paid holidays
Paid time off
Tuition reimbursement
Life insurance
401k with company match
Short term disability insurance
Long term disability insurance
Flexible spending account
Floating holiday
Sign-on bonus
Support
Families: Collaborate with parents and caregivers to create a supportive environment where children’s needs are met both inside and outside the classroom.
Build
Communities: Work alongside fellow educators, community leaders, and families to build a network of support that uplifts and strengthens the whole community.
Create
Impact: Use your teaching to cultivate not just academic success, but a sense of belonging, resilience, and pride in every child and family.
What We're Looking for
Passion &
Heart: You genuinely care about students, families, and the community.
Creative
Teaching: You think outside the box and bring fresh ideas into the classroom.
Team
Player: You collaborate and communicate with others, from students to families to community partners.
Adaptable
Spirit: You embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and impact.
Credentials Required
CDA (Child Development Associate) credential or associate degree REQUIRED
Must obtain ISBE Paraprofessional Certificate within 30 days of hire (paid for by IAFC).
Must hold or obtain Gateways to Opportunity Early Childhood Education Credential Level 4 (within six months of hire)
Coursework or training relevant to teaching infants and toddlers
Six months to one year teaching or related experience
Background
Check: Safety is important— successful candidates will undergo a background screening.
How This Aligns with Our Mission
At our core, we’re all about catalyzing change by developing strong families and powerful communities. As a Teacher Assistant with us, you’ll play a pivotal role in this mission by shaping the minds of the next generation while also being a positive force in the lives of their families. You’re not just teaching—you’re helping to create a ripple effect that strengthens entire communities where children truly matter most.
While we desire for this job posting to be comprehensive, all aspects of the position may be amended at any time at the discretion of IAFC including job duties, work location and/or work schedule.
Starting salary $39,800 - minimum, based on experience. IL Action for Children is EEO/M/F/V/D employer.
Market context
Steady demand for classroom support roles
In Illinois, assistant teacher roles are commonly tied to ongoing staffing needs in early childhood and school settings, especially for candidates who can meet state or accreditation requirements and stay active with children indoors or outdoors. These positions can be competitive because schools look for dependable, energetic applicants who can support daily routines and physical activity. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this platform, then confirm your credentials and experience match the posting before applying.
