Founded by two physicians, built on science.
Smart Beginnings Academy was founded by Dr. Roy Lingam and Dr. Cindy Magas — not as a daycare, but as a developmental environment grounded in how children's brains actually grow. When you join our team, you're not just teaching. You're part of something that started with a very high bar — and keeps it there.
A place where educators are proud to work
Mission-driven culture
You'll feel the difference from day one — this is a team that genuinely cares about children, families, and each other.
Professional growth
Ongoing training, coaching, and support so you can keep growing as an educator — not just clock in and clock out.
Respected & supported
Leadership that listens. Staff that have each other's backs. You won't feel invisible here.
Multiple locations
Opportunities across our Oswego, Ogden, and Kirk & Butterfield campuses — we're growing, and so is your career.
Families who value you
We attract families who are invested in their children's development — they notice and appreciate great educators.
High standards, high reward
We hold ourselves to a higher bar — and that's what makes the work meaningful when you look back on it.
From the inside
Moments, stories, and real glimpses of what it's like to work here.
We're clear about what great looks like
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Warmth and reliability. Children thrive on consistency. We need educators who show up — emotionally and physically — every day.
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Patience and adaptability. Every child is different. We look for educators who flex their approach, not their expectations.
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A team-first mindset. You collaborate, communicate, and lift the room — not just your own corner of it.
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Commitment to child safety. DCFS standards are our floor, not our ceiling. We take licensing, ratios, and safety seriously.
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Professionalism with heart. We want people who are kind to families, respectful of boundaries, and proud of what they do.
Ready to grow with us?
Send us your resume and a few lines about why early childhood education matters to you. We read every application — and we'll get back to you.
View Open Positions →Serving Oswego, Ogden & IL-59, and Kirk & Butterfield, IL