Kindergarten Teacher - 2026-27

Great Lakes Academy - Kindergarten Teacher - 2026-27About Great Lakes Academy Great Lakes Academy (GLA) is a high-performing, single-site charter school in South Chicago. Core to our mission is equipping every student with the academic foundation, critical thinking skills, and strength of character needed to thrive in high school, college, and beyond.Our teachers work relentlessly to close opportunity gaps, and the results are undeniable. On the 2024 Illinois Assessment of Readiness, GLA had the highest percentage of students reaching proficiency in ELA and Math among all elementary schools in Hyde Park, Woodlawn, South Shore, and South Chicago. We also ranked in the top 20% statewide for ELA growth and the top 6% for math growth.As we look ahead to the 2026-27 school year, we are raising the bar even higher. We are seeking passionate, data-driven teachers who believe all students can achieve at the highest levels and are committed to doing the work to make that belief a reality.Job Overview A Great Lakes Academy Teacher will be part of a team of talented, committed teachers working to change the face of education on the Southeast Side of Chicago. Our Kindergarten Teachers teach reading, writing, and math focused classes to one homeroom of students .Job ResponsibilitiesInternalize and deliver lesson plans that are rigorous, relevant, and engaging, setting students up for success in high school, college, and beyondLead a safe, structured, supportive classroom culture by building relationships with students, leveraging systems & routines, and consistently implementing GLA's code of conductUse academic data to inform whole-group, small-group, and individual instruction and to drive student growth and achievementEstablish relationships with students' families, communicating frequently and partnering in student successConsistently model the Great Lakes Academy Be GREAT virtues: Gratitude, Respect, Excellence, Accountability, and TruthfulnessCollaborate with all staff members across team, grade level and subject areaActively participate in weekly 1:1 coaching and regular professional development (PD)CompetenciesBelief in and alignment with Great Lakes Academy's core beliefs and educational philosophy is non-negotiableGrowth-oriented: Self-reflective with a growth mindset and ability to accept and implement feedbackResponsible: Willingness to work hard, be flexible, followthrough, and overcome obstacles in the pursuit of achieving challenging goalsKindness: Strong relationship builder with students, families, and other staff membersMastery of and enthusiasm for your academic subjectWillingness to place student achievement as highest goalCommitted to educational equity and serving Black and Brown students on the South Side of ChicagoJob RequirementsBachelor's degree requiredTeaching experience in an urban public school or charter school setting preferred, but not requiredEligibility to work in the United States on a full-time basisValid IL Professional Educator License (PEL) preferred, but not required As an equal opportunity employer, Great Lakes Academy hires without consideration to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other category protected by applicable law