brain builders academyChicago, IL
Preschool Teacher
Brain Builders Academy is a progressive early childhood and elementary school serving children ages 3–9. Our program is grounded in neuroscience and aligned with the brain’s critical developmental windows. We combine the best of Reggio Emilia, Montessori, and immersive project-based learning to foster accelerated academic growth through joyful, hands‑on experiences.
In our PreK program, students explore immersive habitats—such as forests, oceans, deserts, and arctic regions that serve as the foundation for interdisciplinary learning. Science, literacy, logic, and dramatic play are woven into each theme. Our 3-year-olds begin one‑on‑one phonics instruction, and by age 4, students are often reading and solving math problems well ahead of traditional grade-level expectations. Classrooms are sensory‑rich, messy, imaginative, and intellectually challenging.
Position Overview:
We’re seeking a passionate and playful PreK 3–4 Teacher who thrives in a creative, high‑energy environment rooted in exploration and individualized instruction. The ideal candidate is confident managing a small group classroom, skilled in early literacy and play‑based learning, and eager to support children through rich thematic units and open‑ended projects. This is not a traditional preschool classroom—our program is fast‑paced, academically rigorous, and filled with wonder.
Responsibilities:
Lead a small group PreK class (ages 3–4) using our proprietary, brain‑based curriculum
Deliver one‑on‑one phonics instruction and support early reading development
Introduce foundational math and logic through games, manipulatives, and real‑world applications
Facilitate interdisciplinary, STEAM‑based projects tied to immersive habitat themes
Maintain a playful, sensory‑rich classroom that encourages inquiry and creativity
Support children’s social‑emotional growth through positive guidance and responsive routines
Communicate clearly and professionally with families and the school leadership team
Collaborate with co‑teachers to maintain consistency, structure, and individualized pacing
Who You Are: A joyful, creative educator who truly loves working with young children
Experienced with child‑led, constructivist approaches (Reggio, Montessori, etc.)
Skilled in differentiated instruction, especially for literacy and early math
Confident in managing a messy, high‑energy classroom with fluid transitions
Comfortable with sensory play, outdoor exploration, and child‑directed projects
Excited about implementing a research‑based curriculum with fidelity
Flexible, collaborative, and committed to professional growth
Qualifications: Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field
At least 2 years of experience in a preschool or PreK classroom
Familiarity with early academic acceleration
Experience with project‑based learning and thematic curriculum preferred
Background in Montessori or Reggio preferred
Must currently live in the Chicagoland area
This Role Is Not a Good Fit If You:
Prefer highly structured, traditional instruction/classroom environment
Are uncomfortable with sensory play or hands‑on, messy environments
Struggle with flexibility, anxiety, or adapting to a dynamic classroom flow
Are looking for a traditional PreK or daycare‑style setting
Are not comfortable sitting on the floor or running around with the kids.
Are not comfortable teaching science, STEM, art, phonics, and math
Prefer a passive classroom role
Join us in shaping confident, curious learners—one joyful, muddy, phonics‑filled day at a time.
Job Type: Full‑time
Education: Bachelor's (Required)
Experience: Early childhood education: 2 years (Required)
Ability to Commute:
Chicago, IL 60607 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
Chicago, IL 60607: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Also on the board Same function, level within a rung
Level
Senior
Location
Chicago, IL
Occupation
Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education
Industry
Child Care Services
Posted
yesterday