Early Childhood Specialist

Job Summary:

The Early Childhood Specialist (ECS) –are responsible for assessing, planning, and coaching based on developmentally appropriate practices, as well as, research-based curriculums in early childhood program. ECS’s support teachers and /or home visitors in meeting the social, emotional, intellectual and physical needs of students 0-4 years old in the GSRP/Head Start Preschool/Early Head Start/Home Based Program in GISD run programs, local school districts, public school academies, and/or community programs. The ECS is responsible for providing ongoing support for improvement in teaching and student performance including developmental screenings and student assessment. ECS will work as a collaborative team guided by the Education Manager.

Essential Duties (May include, but not limited to):

1. Coaches teachers and/or home visitors to effectively implement program curriculum to fidelity, implement licensing standards (when applicable), establishes reflective teaching practices, and supports teachers to stimulate student growth. Ensures practices are based off Head Start Performance Standards and/or the GSRP Implementation Manual, National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), Early Childhood Standards of Quality (ECSQ), and the designated research-based curriculum.

2. Assesses assigned classrooms and/or home visits using tools such as the Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS), and/or Home Observation Visiting Rating Scale (HOVRS) and assists teachers in developing program quality improvement goals, provides observation, feedback and follow-up.

3. Implements coaching strategies which include direct instruction, modeling teaching, suggestions regarding modifying the classroom environment, schedule, or other factors that will improve teaching and learning.

4. Models, supports and monitors effective child observation, assessment, accurate record keeping, and data analysis to support the student’s needs and, when needed, referrals for support services.

5. Assists in interpreting data from developmental screenings and assessments to determine each student’s developmental level, individual and group goals, and strategies for planning individual/group needs.

6. Data is used for reporting results to program administrators and parents/families.

7. Assists in planning and providing professional development.

8. Conducts and participates as needed in staff and center team meetings.

9. Assists teachers in completing all necessary applications and reports required by Office of Head Start, MiLEAP, and Genesee Intermediate School District.

10. Supports and monitors teacher progress on compliance plans.

11. Consistently models Win-Win leadership.

Other Duties:

1. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Education:

Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, or Child Development required, a valid Michigan Teaching Certificate preferred.

Experience:

Minimum of five (5) years’ work experience in an early childhood setting. Training in and experience with preschool or early childhood curriculums. Knowledge of ECSQ and the CLASS preferred. Training certificates and/or experience in administering tools, such as the CLASS, ASQ, or other developmental assessments preferred.

Skills/Other:

Evidence of strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work as an effective team member. Evidence of accurate record keeping, and data collection skills. Ability to utilize district technology, and work to maintain proficiency, as required skill sets change with technology and/or the needs of the district. Maintains positive working relationship with parents/guardians and staff. Punctuality and good attendance are requirements for the position. Ability to work a flexible workday and work week. Discretion with confidential information. Must have a valid Michigan driver’s license, current automobile insurance and have the ability to travel to and from homes and district buildings/programs as required. Must be able to obtain Department of Human Services (DHS) approval, to pass a physical exam and to obtain a satisfactory criminal history check through fingerprinting. Represents the district in a professional manner at all times. Ability to exercise good judgment and make decisions in accordance with board policies and administrative guidelines. Must meet the Department of Health and Human Services vaccination requirement.

Special Job Considerations:

Certification: Preferred

Type of Certification: Valid Michigan Teaching Certificate with a ZA or ZS endorsement

Bargaining Unit: None

Salary Schedule: Contracted, limited-duration grant-funded; Beginning wage $30.50 per hour

Immediate Supervisor: Education Manager

Supervision: None