Specialist, Early Childhood

DEFINITION

: Provides support to schools, eligible private providers, and families with preschool and prekindergarten enrollment. Provides guidance on collecting, organizing, and analyzing data that supports the development of individualized programming for students. Works to engage more private providers so that eligible students and families have options for full day preschool and prekindergarten. Develops curriculum resources and provides professional development. Provides instructional and behavioral strategies to preschool and prekindergarten teachers to assist students in accessing the early childhood curriculum.

EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES:

• Participate in the development, revision, and/or implementation of the early childhood curriculum in alignment with the Maryland Early Learning Frameworks and College and Career Ready Standards.
• Provide technical assistance and consultation services to eligible private providers related to kindergarten readiness, curriculum, professional development, school readiness, and services for student subgroups.
• Offer professional development opportunities to eligible private provider teachers and teaching assistants.
• Provide professional learning to administrators and teachers to ensure the implementation of an effective, research-based early childhood instructional program that meets accreditation standards and requirements.
• Recruit additional private providers to ensure that families who meet the qualifications for early childhood programming at no cost have options in their communities.
• Collaborate with Judy Centers to identify funding sources and programs to ensure supports are provided and barriers identified for students and families.
• Identify and recommend prevention, intervention, and enrichment opportunities for students in early childhood programs.
• Plan and present early childhood information, including Baltimore County Public Schools (BCPS) student achievement data, to various audiences.
• Collaborate with content offices to ensure alignment between early childhood curricula, Maryland Early Learning Standards, and content standards.
• Support early childhood educators with planning, modeling, and coaching of lessons and activities to support the needs of diverse student populations.
• Work collaboratively with teachers, eligible childcare providers, and school-based administrators to solicit feedback to identify BCPS elementary early childhood curricular needs and ensure an understanding of MSDE guidelines for early childhood instruction.
• Collaborate with the Department of Special Education to ensure all students have access to quality early childhood programs.
• Maintain personal professional growth in early childhood instructional practices.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education. Training and Experience:

• Master’s degree in early childhood education, human development, or related field.
• Five years of related teaching experience.
• Completion of Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling training or other foundational Science of Reading Progressional Learning preferred.

Licenses and Certificates:

• Possession of or eligibility for a Maryland Advanced Professional Certificate.
• Administrator I endorsement preferred.

Knowledge. Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of evidence-based practices for early childhood instruction.
• Knowledge of the Maryland Early Learning Frameworks and College and Career Ready Standards.
• Knowledge of learner-centered small group instruction.
• Demonstration of outstanding oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstration of strong leadership, communication, and human relation skills.
• Possession of technology competency (e.g., database, internet, spreadsheet, word processing, and related applications).
• Skill and experience in data analysis and application.

PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:
The work of this class is generally performed both in school and office environments. Travel to schools throughout Baltimore County is required. Work includes the operation of office equipment, computers, and assistive technology devices. Limited physical activities may be required. Work hours may extend beyond the school day and on weekends.

SALARY: Grade 08 on the BCPS CASE 12-month pay scale $89,731 - $135,965.


This position is eligible for membership in the Maryland State Retirement System.


Citizenship, residency or work VISA in United States required