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Mary Crane Center

Assistant Teacher Head Start

Mary Crane Center, Chicago, Illinois, United States, 60290

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Overview Assistant Teacher Head Start – Mary Crane Center. New hires are eligible for a $5,000 sign-on bonus (terms apply).

You’ll work side-by-side with a Lead Teacher to create joyful, developmentally rich classrooms where children feel safe, seen, and supported. This is more than a job; it’s a chance to shape lives, spark learning, and support families in your community.

What You'll Do

Support Learning & Play: Help implement engaging, age-appropriate activities using Creative Curriculum and Head Start standards

Supervise and interact with children during classroom time, meals, and play

Model respectful, positive behavior and guide children with gentle, consistent discipline

Promote family-style dining and healthy habits

Observe & Celebrate Growth

Assist with regular developmental assessments using tools like Creative Curriculum Checklists and Ages & Stages Questionnaires

Capture learning moments through observation notes, photos, and child portfolios

Collaborate with Families

Help coordinate and attend parent-teacher conferences and home visits

Communicate daily with parents about classroom routines, activities, and their child’s progress

Support families in engaging with the program and advocating for their child

Keep Our Classrooms Thriving

Assist with planning and preparing lesson materials

Help maintain a clean, safe, and organized learning space

Sanitize toys, surfaces, and equipment daily

Be a Team Player

Work closely with the Lead Teacher, Site Director, and other staff members

Mentor volunteers, teacher aides, and foster grandparents

Attend trainings, team meetings, and agency events as required

Education & Experience

Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education

Gateways ECE Credential Level 4

Skills & Qualifications

Strong communication skills (written and verbal); bilingual in Spanish preferred

Passion for early childhood development and family engagement

Collaborative, flexible, and open to feedback

Organized, detail-oriented, and committed to high-quality work

Ability to lift up to 30 lbs and work on the floor with children

Willingness to travel locally for home visits and meetings as needed

Why Join Us

Mission-driven work with real impact on children and families

Professional growth opportunities including CDA support, in-services, and workshops

Collaborative culture where your voice matters

Supportive leadership and experienced mentors

Compensation & Benefits Mary Crane Center offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance (HMO, PPO, and DPPO options available), paid time off, and other employee wellness programs. Eligibility varies by position and hours worked. Additional benefit details will be provided during the hiring process.

Salary Description: Non Exempt

Equal Opportunity We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and 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 x2866.

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