The Farm & Nature Discovery School at The Center provides children ages 3 through 6 the unique opportunity to attend school on a 60-acre farm. Our highly qualified and trained teachers guide our students to learn through exploration of their natural environment. Environmental education is integrated with a creative based curriculum, reaching toward developmentally appropriate milestones set forth by the state of Illinois.

We are looking for 3 experienced teacher aides to join our faculty for the 2023-2024 school year. The age groups will be for 3-5 year old children. The shift would be part time, Monday/Wednesday/Friday mornings from about 8:30-12:30 PM. We operate September to May. Position starts late-August for planning, training, and prepping reasons.

Teacher's Aide Qualifications:

• Highschool diploma or equivalent
• Must be 19 years of age
• Must have classroom experience for ages 3-5 (1 years)
• Some early childhood education or child development credit hours from an accredited college or university are preferred.
• Must be fully vaccinated for Covid-19 (vaccination card required for file).
• A current physical form with proof of MMR and TDap vaccines, as well as a negative TB test. A form will be provided upon hire date.
• CPR/First Aid certification is a plus.
• Must be reliable, flexible, and trust worthy.
• Must have strong communication skills, be organized, and be able to multi-task.
• Must have a positive demeanor, love the outdoors, and be a team player.

Job Responsibilities include:

• Assisting the lead teacher in planning, preparing, and implementing developmentally appropriate activities that align with Illinois Early Learning Standards while scaffolding lessons to fit different styles of learning and developmental needs.
• Assisting the lead teacher in providing a classroom space that is clean, organized, and welcoming so all children feel comfortable coming to school each day to learn and explore.
• Assisting the lead teacher in managing the classroom in a way that provides children with structure, stability, and consistency.
• Assisting the lead teacher in completing observations, assessments, and portfolios for each child in a way that benefits their learning experience.
• Maintain the supervision, wellbeing, and safety of all students.
• Build strong, trusting, and positive relationships with each child.
• Maintain 15 annual in-service hours approved by DCFS.
• Be aware of and comply with all DCFS licensing rules.

We provide a fun, unique work environment where you can genuinely be excited to come to work each day. You can research our school on our website at ------------ or follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

Please email us your resume and cover letter. You must have experience in leading a classroom with children ages 3-5. We are accepting applications by email only: no walk-ins or phone calls. We hope to hear from you soon!

Job Type: Part-time

Salary: $15.00 - $16.00 per hour