assistant teacher 2025-2026
Park West Cooperative Nursery School is a well-respected early childhood institution that has been part of the Lincoln Park community for over 50 years. Our school is dedicated to providing a warm, supportive environment in which children develop trusting relationships with teachers that enable them to take intellectual risks and form social connections with peers. A play-based, emergent curriculum provides opportunities for growth in all developmental domains.
We are accepting applications for assistant teachers for the 2025-2026 school year. Assistant teachers are integral members of the classroom teaching team and participate in all aspects of classroom life. This position involves forming warm relationships with children and families and supporting all classroom activities. Duties may include playing interactively with children, collaborating with lead teachers, setting and cleaning up materials and activities and preparing and cleaning up after snack.
Our long-tenured teaching staff are experts in the field of early childhood education. They not only provide strong models for teaching, but are skilled in guiding the development of those new to the field. This position presents a unique opportunity to develop your teaching abilities in a professional learning community. We are housed in an award-winning building that is well connected to public transportation.
Successful applicants will have an interest in working with young children, the ability to lift at least 50 pounds and be able to pass a DCFS background check. Coursework or other experience related to child development and an understanding of Constructivist philosophy is strongly preferred.
Class offerings for the 2025-2026 school year
2-Day - Tuesday, Friday 8:30-10:30am
Children must be 3 by March 1, 2026
3-Day - Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 8:30-11:30am
Children must be 3 by November 1, 2025
4-Day - Tuesday - Friday 8:30-11:30am
Children must be 3 by September 1, 2025
4-Day/JK full day option - Tuesday - Friday 8:30am-4:00pm
Children must be 3 or 4 by September 1, 2025
JK - Tuesday - Friday 1:00-4:15pm
Children must be 4 by September 1, 2025
Interested parties should send inquiries or resumes to educationdirector@parkwestcoop.org