Program Support Assistant Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

What You'll Do:

School Program Support

• Assist with opening and closing procedures, manage daily operations to ensure a consistent and smooth flow of activities.

• Support the Executive School Director in the management of the School, consistent with all state and local regulations and The Gardner School policies and procedures.

• Assists teachers and School leadership in ensuring that classroom and playground equipment is maintained in good repair.

• Enforces all safety rules and regulations with Team Members for the safety of the children and parents.

• Build and maintain positive relationships with parents and families, addressing any questions, concerns, and feedback to support the school's commitment to exceptional care.

Classroom and Team Member Support:

• Provide additional classroom support as needed, assisting teachers and Team members to ensure quality programming and a safe, productive environment.

• Lead and teach children through all activities of the day, ensuring they have an enjoyable, well-rounded educational experience in the absence of teaching Team Members.

Educational and Enrichment Program Oversight:

• Review lesson plans to confirm alignment with curriculum standards.

• Manage enrichment programs, and teach enrichment classes, fostering a dynamic and engaging learning experience for children.

• Vendor management for enrichment programs.

• Assist teachers with planning and implementing curriculum that reflects classroom observations and the goals of each child.

Team Member Break Management

• Supports Team Member break schedules to ensure appropriate coverage, helping maintain compliance with staffing ratios and ensuring uninterrupted program quality. (Spends approximately 50% of time in classroom to support ratios and team breaks.)

Compliance and Licensing Standards

• Support ED and AD in monitoring and ensuring adherence to state licensing standards and maintaining the required student-to-teacher ratios at all times.

What We Offer:

• Competitive Pay: The starting salary range for this position is $41,200-$48,500 annually. Actual pay will depend on factors such as relevant experience, skills, and education. In addition to base salary, this role is eligible for a quarterly, performance-based bonus.

• Comprehensive Benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance; paid time off; 401(k) with company match; childcare tuition discount; paid holidays; and professional development opportunities

• Career Growth: Ongoing professional development and training, opportunities for advancement within our growing organization, and a supportive, mission-driven culture.

Qualifications :

Education:

• Meet state licensing requirements for education and experience (Required)

• Bachelor's degree (Required). Prefer degree in Early Childhood Education, Education Administration, or related field.

Experience:

• A minimum of two years' experience in a licensed childcare with at least one year as a teacher or supervising a childcare program.

Other

• Possess a valid driver's license

• Eligible to work in the U.S. without sponsorship

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Must be able to react quickly with sound judgment and problem-solving skills in complex and critical situations such as injuries and accidents.

• Must love working with children and have a loving and nurturing personality

• Excellent communication skills, including personal face-to-face communications with parents, Team Members, and children

• Strong organizational skills

• Ability to maintain confidentiality of school directives, curriculum, and software

• Demonstrated ability to maintain professional and positive relationships with parents and co-workers

• Strong understanding of licensing standards and ratios

• Problem solving skills

• Effective communication skills, verbal and written

• Ability to manage time effectively and efficiently

• Ability to multi-task

• Regular and reliable attendance

Physical Demands:

• Ability to operate computer, phone and other office equipment as needed

• Ability to lift and carry children up to 60 pounds

• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position

• Conduct class observations

The Gardner School extends equal employment opportunities to qualified applicants and employees on an equal basis regardless of an individual's age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other reason prohibited by law.