Careers at CKA

Build a Career You’ll Love.

Join an award-winning team where you’ll feel supported, appreciated, and inspired to make a difference every day.

Apply Now
CKA teacher sharing a hug with a young child

A Great Place to Work

Looking for more than just a job? At Creative Kids Academy, you’ll find a career where you’ll be supported, encouraged, and empowered to grow. As part of our team, you’ll build meaningful relationships, make a lasting difference in children’s lives, and work alongside people who are passionate about early childhood education.

We’re committed to creating a workplace where employees feel valued, respected, and inspired to do their best work. That commitment has earned Creative Kids Academy local and national Top Workplace recognition year after year, a reflection of the culture we’ve built together.

If you’re looking for a place where your work is appreciated, your growth is supported, and you can make a difference every day, we’d love to welcome you to the CKA family.

Teacher laughing with a happy baby at CKA

Award-Winning Workplace Culture

We’re proud that our employees have consistently made Creative Kids Academy one of Minnesota’s and the nation’s Top Workplaces.

The Minnesota Star Tribune Top 200 Workplaces 2026 badge
Top Workplaces Education Industry 2026 badge
Top Workplaces Employee Appreciation 2026 badge
Top Workplaces Employee Well-Being 2026 badge
Top Workplaces Professional Development 2026 badge
Elk River Chamber of Commerce award logo

Why You’ll Love Working at CKA

CKA staff member with face paint at a center celebration

Positive Culture

We believe positive energy creates a positive world, and it starts with our team. We’ve built an award-winning workplace where respect, kindness, collaboration, and fun are part of everyday life. From celebrating milestones to building meaningful connections, we’re committed to fostering an environment where employees feel welcomed, valued, and inspired to do their best work.

CKA teachers playing a team game together

Supportive Team

You’ll never feel like you’re on your own. Whether you’re new to early childhood education or a seasoned teacher, you’ll be surrounded by leaders and teammates who are ready to answer questions, share ideas, lend a helping hand, and celebrate your successes.

CKA leadership team members together

Career Growth & Professional Development

Whether you’re just starting out or bringing years of experience, we invest in your success. From a paid CDA program and T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood scholarships to ongoing training, mentorship, and leadership opportunities, we’re here to help you build a career you’ll love. We’re proud to promote from within, and many of our leaders began their careers in CKA classrooms before growing into leadership roles and building rewarding careers with us for 10, 15, or even 20+ years.

CKA teacher reading with children

Meaningful Work

The work you do matters. As an early childhood educator, every hug, encouraging word, and learning experience helps shape a child’s confidence, independence, and lifelong love of learning. The relationships you build with children and families will leave an impact long after they leave your classroom. Few careers offer the opportunity to make such a meaningful difference every single day.

CKA staff appreciation awards celebration

Appreciation

Great work deserves to be recognized. From weekly shout-outs and milestone celebrations to annual awards, bonus recognition programs, staff appreciation events, and holiday celebrations, we make it a priority year-round to celebrate the people who make CKA such a special place to work.

CKA staff member enjoying a wellness chair massage

Competitive Benefits

Taking care of our team is just as important as taking care of the children in our classrooms. That’s why we offer comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, paid holidays, childcare discounts, retirement savings, wellness initiatives, bonuses, and other valuable benefits designed to support you both at work and at home.

Hear From Our Team

Out of all the centers I have worked at in the past, Creative Kids Academy is truly unlike anywhere else. From the creative freedom teachers are allowed, to the dedication and support of the leadership team.

— Ms. Amber

I have enjoyed working for Creative Kids Academy since 2016 due to the children and their families. The company gives me freedom to use my creative abilities.

— Ms. Shawn A.

I have enjoyed working at Creative Kids Academy since 2017 and it has been a lot of fun. The Orono center itself is unique in more ways than one, with hand-painted murals that help set the ambiance.

— Ms. E

I like working for Creative Kids Academy because it is small enough to be personable, like family. You’re able to build the necessary connections to children and their families to help them thrive.

— Ms. Breanna B.

CKA has been an amazing place to work. The staff were all so open and friendly, the leadership was kind and accommodating, and the kids and families were a joy to work with.

— Ms. Kari G.

Ready to Love Where You Work?

Every day, you’ll make a difference in the lives of children while building a career you can be proud of. We’d love to meet you.

Apply Now