Peoria Academy is seeking an Early Childhood Teacher to join our dedicated and collaborative team. This full-time, year-round teaching role focuses on supporting the social, emotional, and academic development of our youngest learners through inquiry-based, play-centered learning. The ideal candidate will foster a nurturing and engaging environment, inspire curiosity and independence, and support the developmental needs of children in the early years.

Peoria Academy is an independent, International Baccalaureate World School serving 155 students in Pre-K through 8th grade. We implement the Primary Years Programme (PYP) in Pre-K through 5th grade and the Middle Years Programme (MYP) in grades 6–8. The Early Childhood Teacher will be a vital member of our faculty, delivering developmentally appropriate, inquiry-driven instruction aligned with the philosophy and framework of the PYP.

The Early Childhood Teacher will work closely with other faculty to design meaningful learning experiences, maintain a safe and joyful classroom, and cultivate strong relationships with students and families. In addition to teaching responsibilities, all faculty members are expected to participate in the life of the school, demonstrate a growth mindset, collaborate professionally, and serve as positive ambassadors for Peoria Academy.

This position is an exciting opportunity for a mission-driven, reflective educator who is passionate about early childhood education and eager to contribute to the strategic growth and educational vision of Peoria Academy.

GENERAL JOB SUMMARY

• Develop and implement inquiry-based, play-centered curriculum that supports cognitive, social-emotional, and physical development.
• Create a warm, safe, and inclusive classroom environment that encourages exploration, creativity, and collaboration.
• Observe, assess, and document student growth using developmentally appropriate assessment tools.
• Collaborate with colleagues to integrate transdisciplinary themes and support school-wide initiatives, including service learning and the IB learner profile.
• Communicate regularly with families through newsletters, conferences, and ParentSquare to build positive school-home relationships.
• Participate in ongoing professional development, team meetings, and school events. 

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree or higher from an accredited college or university; 
• 2+ years of experience as a classroom teacher; strong candidates with less experience may be considered.  
• Certified or willing to become certified in CPR/First Aid;
• Must be legally able to work in the United States;
• Completion of the state-required fingerprinting and criminal background check is required;
• Knowledge of child development;
• Collaborative, mission-driven, and eager to engage positively with the wider Peoria Academy community
• A strong personal drive for excellence and dedication to life-long learning.

COMPENSATION

• Salary of $40,000-$50,000 depending on qualifications and experience
• Peoria Academy offers a competitive suite of benefits including health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance, as well as paid time off and support for professional development and education.

TO APPLY:   Please email a cover letter addressing your qualifications for the position, a resume, and a list of three professional references to: Marissa Draney, Principal, mdraney@peoriaacademy.org.

About Peoria Academy

Peoria Academy is a diverse community of students, parents, and educators working together to provide a rigorous educational experience. Using progressive techniques that nurture the whole child, our independent school fosters intrinsic motivation, resilience, and creativity.

Connections working at Peoria Academy