Education Specialist - Educator Excellence

Rhode Island Department of Education is seeking an individual to serve in a dynamic role focused on strengthening the educator workforce. This Education Specialist supports Educator Preparation Program Reviews (PREP-RI), helping ensure that educator preparation programs produce highly qualified, classroom-ready educators through continuous review and improvement. The position also plays a key role in educator certification and the analysis and use of data to inform statewide decision-making, accountability, and continuous improvement efforts. This is an exciting opportunity to influence educator quality, support the certification process, and drive system-level improvements that impact students and schools across Rhode Island. DEPARTMENT OF ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION NONCLASSIFIED JOB DESCRIPTION TITLE: Education Specialist- Educator Quality GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES: Incumbent is responsible for supporting and implementing a system of performance-based licensure and continuous professional development opportunities for Rhode Island educators. SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Works under the supervision of a manager with wide latitude to exercise independent judgment. Work is subject to review on a periodic basis or upon completion for results achieved and for adherence to professional standards of conduct. SUPERVISION EXERCISED: Generally, none. May work as part of teams and in collaboration with others with wide latitude for the exercise of independent judgment to achieve results. May be involved in providing input to the performance management process as a peer or colleague as appropriate. ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLES OF WORK PERFORMED AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Ensures the timely and accurate approval of applications for certification. Ensures that schools employ properly certified personnel by conducting the annual personnel assignment process. Provides technical guidance and assistance in the certification process. Ensures that all teacher preparation programs in the State meet program approval standards by conducting on-site visits. Collaborates with institutions of higher education and provide technical assistance as it relates to the program approval process. Ensures State educators and higher education are provided with policy information and research about certification requirements. Supports school districts and training programs to provide training and testing of teacher assistants to ensure they meet state and federal standards. Identifies exemplary State educators, which includes soliciting nominations, screening applications, convening panels to select nominees, preparing materials for nominees, and organization recognition ceremonies. Facilitates group planning meetings of the Educator Quality Fellows to set goals, prioritize work, and set calendars and schedules. Conducts research in the design and development of a state-of-the-art system of preparation, certification, and professional development of State educators. Administers grants and other fiscal responsibilities as assigned. Performs related work as assigned.