Lead Nursery School Teacher

Lincoln Park Cooperative Nursery School (LPCNS) is a Social Constructivist, play-based preschool that embraces the philosophy that learning takes place in the context of authentic relationships. Through meaningful collaboration with families and a focus on individualized instruction that comes from a deep respect for children as collaborators in their own development, the full potential of the parent-student-teacher partnership is maximized. We are a licensed and NAEYC accredited nursery school which has operated for almost 75 years.  

We are looking for an individual to join our staff in all aspects of our work with young children. LPCNS uses a developmentally appropriate, child-centered, play-based curriculum. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking for the chance to work with highly qualified staff in an exemplary nursery program and unique school model. 

Position & Duties

Lead teachers collaborate on lesson planning based on our curriculum, assessing, recording and documenting individual child and group growth and development, and regularly communicating with parents regarding their child’s progress. This position is a co-teaching position for the nursery school program. Lead Teacher hours are customized within school hours each year according to their particular class and overall staff scheduling. Hours are in-between part and full time and include benefits. Programs run part-day in the morning or afternoon, one to four days per week. As part of our cooperative, staff members also participate in occasional school meetings and events that can take place on evenings and weekends.

Lead teachers attend weekly staff meetings and are responsible for keeping abreast of trends in Early Childhood Education by participating in conferences and in-service training, and participating in both individual and staff professional development experiences and activities.

Qualifications & Experience

Candidates must have or be working toward a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field. Experience is required. Equally important are the personal qualities of enthusiasm, warmth, flexibility, creativity, sound judgment and emotional maturity with a sincere desire to effectively serve the needs of the children and families, which make up our cooperative. All school employees are required to be fingerprinted by the state of Illinois and undergo a criminal background check.