Education Specialist

Description

Position Overview

The Education Specialist provides oversight and training to staff on program procedures and processes. He/She monitors and supervises the Head Start education services in the center. The Education Specialist serves as a content area expert, mentor, and coach in order to ensure that all students receive quality instructional services and meet or exceed school readiness goals.

The Education Specialist ensures that services are comprehensive, culturally relevant, and developmentally appropriate in a learning environment that maximizes opportunities for each child’s physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth. He/She guides curriculum and assessment through data collection and analysis and supports professional development and training. The Education Specialist ensures teachers support parents in their role as the child’s first teacher.

Physical Demands

Work involves sitting with frequent requirements to move about the office, facility, and traveling to other centers. Work involves using repetitive motions of the wrists, hands and/or fingers while operating standard office equipment. Must be able to perceive the nature of sound at normal speaking levels with or without correction. Must be able to be active for extended periods of time without experiencing undue fatigue.

Must be able to lift children weighing 50 pounds or more as it may be required during emergencies or other unusual circumstances. Must recognize hazards and dangerous situations and take appropriate action. Must be able to perform daily visits to the centers, provide classroom and playground observations, and monitor field trips.

Mental Demands

Must demonstrate good communication and speaking skills to receive and give information in person and by telephone. Must demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills. Must have the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Must possess comprehensive knowledge of Early Childhood Development and classroom techniques.

Attention to detail and the ability to multi-task in complex situations is required. Must have the ability to plan effectively and assist with operating the center; delegate authority; and, meet program goals and objectives.

Special Demands

Must possess superior customer service skills and professional etiquette. Must possess proficient knowledge and ability to use a computer (must be keyboard proficient) and other office technology (i.e. telephone, fax, etc.). Must have advanced knowledge and skill in using MS Office. Must understand the fundamentals of automated data processing, and be able to quickly gain a detailed understanding of complex computerized and non-computerized information.

Must have a valid drivers’ license and a satisfactory driving record.

Requirements

Education / Experience

Bachelor of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Education and one (1) year of supervisory experience; OR a related degree/credential and five (5) years’ strong supervisory experience; OR a Bachelor of Arts Degree and two (2) years working with pre-school children.

Must have experience with Early Childhood Development and classroom techniques.

Certification

Certification as a Teachstone Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS) reliable observer at, or within six (6) months of job start. Must maintain certification.

Must have a valid drivers’ license and a satisfactory driving record.