Duties
JCC Chicago is the largest JCC system in North America, with more than 800 staff in over 15 diverse locations across the metropolitan area. Our core program offerings include Early Childhood Education, Children and Family Engagement Programs, J at School, Sports & Recreation, Aquatics, Arts & Ideas, Day Camps and Overnight Camp.
Classrooms are the first community.
When we speak about community, we speak about places of sharing, learning, growing and connection. For some 800 young children in the Chicago area, the first community begins in JCC Chicago’s Early Childhood program.
We are committed to excellence, providing strong professional development opportunities and nature-inspired classrooms that allow our staff to be their most creative selves! With our ongoing commitment to maintaining the highest DCFS standards, we are looking for those who are enthusiastic about guiding each child to reach their full potential.
Job Summary:
As a Reggio Emilia inspired Early Childhood program, we support the individual needs and abilities of each of our students through an emergent, play based curriculum.
We are looking for professional educators who are interested in growing with us!
Key Responsibilities:
- Build a trusting relationship with each child and family in your classroom.
- Become part of our vibrant, creative, laughter filled community; demonstrate a healthy sense of humor; laugh at the children’s jokes (regardless of whether you understand them)!
- Show your passion for song! The ability to sing on key is appreciated, however the willingness to sing loudly regardless of pitch is an absolute must.
- Demonstrate investigative skills and an ability to understand your students’ behaviors and needs.
- Greet each child with an enthusiasm that lets him/her know your day is not complete until they have arrived.
- Actively engage in staff meetings and trainings by sharing your ideas and experience with colleagues.
- Create a positive, supportive classroom environment for your team and students. As the lead teacher, you will be expected to support your team in following JCC policies and meeting DCFS and NAEYC requirements.
- Nurture and support each child and take pride in the fact that you are making a difference in the lives of each child and family.
Qualifications
Education Qualifications for Assistant Teachers:
Have or be working on either a CDA or equivalent or an associate’s or higher degree in ECE-CD or equivalent.
OR
One (1) year (1560 clock hours) of child development experience in a pre-school, Kindergarten or licensed Day Care program, from birth to age six preferred.
Education Qualifications for Lead Teachers:
· Have a minimum of a CDA or equivalent;
OR
· Be working on an associate’s or higher degree in ECE, child development-family studies, early childhood special education, or elementary education with a concentration in ECE or the equivalent;
OR
· Have a degree (associate’s or higher) outside of the early childhood field and three or more years of work experience in an NAEYC-accredited program;
OR
· Have a degree (associate’s or higher) outside of early childhood field with three or more years of work experience in a non-accredited program and at least 30 contact hours of relevant training during that past three years.
Other Requirements:
- At least 19 years of age;
- A love for children and a passion for helping them reach their full potential.
- Ability to build relationships with families and coworkers and create a dynamic environment where children’s curiosity is encouraged and celebrated.
Salary/Benefits
$15 to $20 per hour
Employee Perks: (Benefits will differ for FT and PT employees, based on hours worked)
FT benefits may include medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance, sick, vacation & holiday pay. PT benefits may include sick, vacation & holiday pay.
Various Shifts: mornings, afternoons and full day!
How to Apply
Apply on our Career Page by clicking on this link:
https://www.jccchicago.org/about/career-listings/