Pre-K Lead Instructor - After School Program

Pre-K Lead Instructor

About Brains and Motion Education

Are you ready to join Brains & Motion Education (BAM!) and be part of a team focused on unleashing the potential within every student?

At BAM!, we bring together top-notch instructors and exciting content in local schools and communities, offering students year-round opportunities to grow and explore their interests. Learning isn't just about knowledge—it's about having fun and making lasting memories!

Our on-campus programs are conveniently located at schools and universities, providing a safe environment where students can thrive, learn, and have fun with their friends. We specialize in innovative STEM, Arts, and Sports enrichment programs that have inspired over 100,000 students and impacted more than 1,000 schools. Whether it's robotics, creative arts, sports, or early childhood enrichment, our mission is simple: to equip children with the tools to thrive through quality educational experiences.

If you're ready to make a meaningful impact, consider joining us in shaping the future of learning. Apply today!

Job Description

As the Lead Instructor / Director Designee (Pre-K), you will support the Pre-K Site Director with all aspects of our licensed early childhood enrichment programs while helping ensure a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for children. You will assist with daily operations, staff support, program implementation, and compliance with BAM! and Illinois licensing requirements.

This position serves as the designated person responsible for assuming decision-making authority when the Director is off-site. Because the program operates for no more than three consecutive hours per day, the Director Designee may work in the classroom and be counted toward staff-to-child ratios in accordance with licensing regulations.

In this role, you will:

• Direct and guide classroom staff in implementing BAM! curriculum and program policies.
• Support the Director in overseeing daily program operations and maintaining licensing compliance.
• Ensure safety procedures, attendance procedures, and student supervision requirements are followed.
• Actively participate in classroom instruction and student engagement activities.
• Foster a positive and respectful learning environment through strong leadership, communication, and patience.
• Support behavior management and social-emotional development of students.
• Assist with staff training, onboarding, and coaching.
• Collaborate with the Director to support family communication and program events.
• Help maintain required program records and documentation.
• Monitor classroom quality and provide support to teaching staff as needed.
• Maintain regular communication with the Site Director and Program Manager.
• Serve as Acting Director when the Director is unavailable, assuming responsibility for on-site operations and decision-making.

Qualifications

Applicants must be at least 21 years of age and meet one of the following Illinois DCFS Director qualifications:

Option 1

• Associate Degree from an accredited college or university in:
  • Early Childhood Education; or
  • Child Development

Option 2

• 64 semester hours of college coursework in any discipline, including:
  • A minimum of 21 semester hours in Child Development and/or Early Childhood Education

PLUS one of the following:

• Gateways to Opportunity Level I Illinois Director Credential
• 3 semester hours of college credit in Child Care Administration or Leadership
• 3 points of credential-approved training in Administration or Leadership

Additional Qualifications

• Minimum 2–3 years of experience working with children in grades Pre-K through 8.
• Minimum 1–2 years of supervisory or leadership experience.
• Passion for teaching and coaching, with strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated knowledge of youth development, curriculum implementation, classroom management, and instructional best practices.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to effectively manage program operations.
• Reliable transportation.
• Valid Driver's License or State ID.
• Ability to successfully pass a criminal background check.
• Current CPR/First Aid Certification or willingness to obtain certification.
• Current physical examination and TB test (or ability to obtain prior to employment).
• Active Gateways Registry membership and proof of registration.
• Ability to lift and carry approximately 20–50 pounds occasionally, with or without accommodation.

Required Training

The Director and Director Designee must successfully complete a Department-approved training course of six (6) or more clock hours on providing care to children with disabilities.

• Training must be approved by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).
• A certificate of completion must be maintained on file.
• Newly appointed Directors and Director Designees must complete this training within the applicable licensing timeline.

Required Training

The Director Designee must successfully complete a Department-approved training course of six (6) or more clock hours on providing care to children with disabilities.

• Training must be approved by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).
• A certificate of completion must be maintained on file.
• Training must be completed within applicable licensing timelines.

Details

Position: Lead Instructor / Director Designee (Pre-K)

Wage: $25.00 /hour

Job Type: Part-Time

Availability Required: Mondays Thru Fridays, 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM

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Brains and Motion Education is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive work environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin