Job Details

Job Location: ITAV Early Learning Center - Chicago, IL 60651

Salary Range: $39,729.00 - $47,703.00

About It Takes A Village Family of Schools (ITAV)

It Takes A Village Family of Schools (ITAV) is a beacon for educating and uplifting Black children and families across Chicago. We provide a culturally responsive, social justice–centered education that empowers students to become confident learners, critical thinkers, and changemakers. At ITAV, learning is joyful and transformative, teaching is innovative, and classrooms extend far beyond four walls. We are committed to nurturing the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally—while building strong, connected communities.

Position Overview

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Teacher Assistant to support our early childhood classrooms. In this role, you will partner with lead teachers to create a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where children can learn, explore, and grow. This position is part of ITAV’s expanding early childhood programming, supported through strategic public and private funding to increase access to high-quality care in our communities.

Key Responsibilities

Support the center in providing attentive, nurturing care to infants and toddlers in a safe and stimulating environment
Assist with the implementation of age-appropriate activities that support cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development
Build positive relationships with children, families, and team members
Support classroom management, daily routines, and transitions
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe classroom aligned with licensing and health regulations
Monitor children’s well-being and report any concerns to the lead teacher or leadership
Assist with developmental observations and documentation as needed
Perform additional duties as assigned to support classroom, site, and organizational needs

Why Join ITAV?

Make an Impact: Play a key role in supporting early learning experiences during critical developmental years
Grow Your Career: Access tuition assistance, credential support, and professional development opportunities
Be in Community: Work alongside a team of passionate educators committed to excellence and equity
Innovate in Education: Be part of a model that integrates social justice, community engagement, and high-quality early learning

Position Details

Locations: Humboldt Park, South Loop, Austin (Chicago, IL)

Position Type: Full-Time, 12-Month Position

Salary Range: $39,729 – $47,703

Grant Funded: This position is supported through grant-funded programs that are integral to ITAV’s early childhood education model. These funding streams enable us to expand access to high-quality, culturally responsive care and learning across our communities.

Salary Placement (Based on Credentials)

AA Degree: $43,665 – $47,703
CDA -or- HS Diploma and 6 Qualifying Credit Hours in ECE: $39,729 – $43,403

Qualifications

Required:

CDA -or- HS Diploma and 6 Qualifying Credit Hours in ECE
Gateways Credential (Level 2)

Preferred:

Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education or related field
Gateways Credential (Level 4)
Prior experience working with infants and toddlers in a licensed childcare or early learning setting

Who You Are

Child-Centered: You prioritize the safety, well-being, and development of young children
Knowledgeable: You understand early childhood development, milestones, and individual learning differences
Creative & Engaging: You design meaningful learning experiences that spark curiosity and exploration
Collaborative: You value teamwork and open communication with families and colleagues
Mission-Aligned: You are passionate about culturally responsive education and social justice

Compensation & Benefits

We believe in investing in our educators through a competitive, transparent compensation and benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and long-term success.

Up to 80% employer-paid medical coverage
Full benefits package, including Dental, Vision, Legal Services, and Short-Term Disability
3% 401(k) employer match to help you build long-term financial security
Up to $10,000 annually in tuition assistance to support degree completion and credential advancement
Robust paid time off, including 16 PTO days per year, 9 sick/personal days per year, and compensatory time eligible
15 paid holidays annually
Clear pathways for career advancement and leadership opportunities

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you are passionate about early childhood education and ready to make a meaningful impact, we encourage you to apply. Submit your resume and cover letter to join a team that is shaping the future—one child at a time.