(2) Child Development and Education Specialist

We are seeking a dedicated Child Development and Education Specialist to support the growth and quality of early childhood education across our Head Start centers. This role involves coaching, mentoring, and training education staff, ensuring compliance with state and federal standards, and fostering best practices in classroom environments and curriculum implementation.

• Support the Education Manager in delivering training sessions, including New Hire Orientation.

• Meet with new hires in assigned classrooms to review the New Hire Observation Guide.

• Attend assigned meetings, trainings, seminars, and conferences.

• Collaborate with the Education Manager to develop work plans, calendars, SOPs, observation tools, forms, and reports.

• Create and implement coaching plans in partnership with Center Directors.

• Conduct weekly classroom visits using observation, coaching, and mentoring tools.

• Serve as a CLASS reliable observer and conduct scheduled CLASS reviews.

• Provide feedback and guidance on CLASS observations and submit scores to the Education Manager.

• Mentor staff on the Reggio-Inspired Approach and classroom environment design.

• Guide lesson planning, classroom management, and TS Gold documentation.

• Support the implementation of the Project Approach and related activities.

• Advise on classroom portfolios and recommend improvements.

• Promote School Readiness, Family Engagement, and Indiana Foundations.

• Assist with planning and implementing new initiatives as directed by the Education Manager or Assistant Head Start Director for Center Operations.

• Submit monthly reports to the Education Manager.

Why Choose FDS?

At FDS, we believe in creating environments that enhance children's development and support families in meeting their self-identified goals. With a focus on collaboration and community engagement, you'll be part of a team that truly makes a difference.

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8-hour shift: Monday to Friday

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Early Childhood Education; OR

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree with equivalent coursework in Early Childhood Education and experience teaching preschool-aged children.

Preferred Skills

• Strong understanding of CLASS, TS Gold, and Reggio-Inspired practices.

• Effective coaching and mentoring abilities.

• Excellent communication and organizational skills.

• Commitment to continuous improvement and professional development.

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and healthy workplace.