The United Planning Organization (UPO) is the designated Community Action Agency for Washington, DC, and has served the residents of the District since 1962. Our Vision for the future is “UPO’s Washington: A city of thriving communities and self-sufficient residents.” Our Mission is “Uniting People with Opportunities.” Our Promise: Community Action changes people’s lives, embodies the spirit of hope, improves communities, and makes America a better place to live. We care about the entire community, and we are dedicated to helping people help themselves and each other.

OEL’s Mission

In collaboration with Family and the community, we will educate, empower and support children by providing continuous high quality comprehensive services to achieve successful parent engagement and positive child outcomes. The UPO Office of Early Learning has a special focus on helping children from birth to age 3 to grow and thrive in a healthy, supportive environment. Our Early Head Start programs provide infants and toddlers with the tools needed to develop their social-emotional, physical, cognitive, and language skills—steering them in the direction of happiness and success.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply for this position or any other position currently advertised on our website. Please visit us at www.upo.org to view all of our vacancies and to learn more about our company and services.

PROGRAM/DIVISION: Office of Early Learning-EHS

CLOSING DATE: Open until filled

FIRST SOURCE: N/A

Ability to inspire, support CDA interns with a professionalism plan to support with workforce development that will sustain their goals in entering or returning to the workforce field.

Develop with Early Education Credentialing Program Director and implement a mentoring program for CDA Interns.

Ensuring effective implementation of approved health, safety, and curricula by observing CDA Interns during the 480 practicum hours needed to complete UPO’s Child Development Associate Credentialing Program.

Facilitate monthly professional development (Lunch and learn and CDA check-ins)with all CDA interns.

Conduct monthly reflective meetings with center directors on CDA intern progress in program.

Conduct exit interviews, final portfolio check and provide support with CDA application.

Provide follow-up coaching to students completing their 480 hours of classroom experience. Reliable transportation to be able to travel to various sites.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

CDA Credential with two to three years of experience teaching in an early learning setting with children birth to three and families. Two (2) years of experience working in a Head Start and/or Early Head Start program. Ability to communicate effectively in writing and orally. Computer literacy including MS Office and data management systems.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

CDA Credential with three to five years of experience teaching in an early learning setting with children birth to three and families. Knowledge of the process of the CDA national credentialing program. Three (3) years of experience working in Head Start and/or Early Head Start program. Experience working with Head Start outcomes tracking software (ChildPlus).

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

In the event that an offer is extended, the candidate will be required to successfully complete a criminal background check and/or FBI fingerprinting, as well as pre-employment drug screening, as applicable for the position.