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.
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.
Apply Now →Serving Oswego, Ogden & IL-59, and Kirk & Butterfield, IL