Early Childhood Specialist

Marquette-Alger RESA•Marquette, MI

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Early Childhood Specialist (ECS) is responsible for ensuring the implementation of high-quality preschool programs and compliance of the Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP) and Pre-K for All classrooms across Marquette and Alger Counties through regular, ongoing classroom support, professional development, coaching, observation, and feedback. The ECS provides program support in implementing the curriculum and assessment tool with fidelity and guides teachers and teams in decisions that impact student and family outcomes. In addition, the ECS collaborates with other early childhood education team members to ensure quality, cohesive programming and ongoing learning opportunities for early childhood educators and service providers. The ECS uses multiple evidence-based resources in a continuous quality improvement model that includes data collection, analysis, and goal setting.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field
Minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience in Early Childhood Education
Demonstrated experience coaching and mentoring adult learners to support professional growth and the implementation of effective practices
Knowledge of child development, developmentally appropriate practice, early childhood education and special education topics related to the field
Knowledge of the State of Michigan Licensing Rules for Child Care Centers
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Proven ability to demonstrate initiative and work independently
Demonstrated organizational and time management skills
Proficiency in computer/software use including Google Suite, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Zoom
Demonstrated experience exercising confidentiality and sound judgment in dealing with local districts, staff, students, and operations
Ability to successfully manage multiple projects simultaneously, work independently, and maintain proactive communication with stakeholders
Ability to deal with issues in a fair manner, treat diverse populations and personalities with dignity and respect, and act in a highly ethical manner
Professional appearance; professional and positive attitude
Must keep the affairs of Marquette-Alger RESA, CBOs (Community Based Organizations), and LEAs confidential at all times
Must exercise confidentiality and sound judgment in dealing with families, children, administrators, and staff
Must demonstrate excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
Must effectively orchestrate multiple activities/projects simultaneously to accomplish goals and use resources effectively
Must be organized, self-motivated and enthusiastic
Must successfully adapt/function independently within a variety settings
Must have regular and reliable job attendance, performance, and the physical ability to do the job

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field
Valid Michigan Elementary Teaching Certificate with Early Childhood Endorsement (ZS) or (ZN)
Prior experience in a GSRP classroom and/or early childhood special education setting
Specific professional training, experience, and/or certifications in: HighScope Curriculum, Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS), and HighScope Child Observation Record (COR)
Experience with the Essential Instructional Practices in Early Literacy and Math
Knowledge of Michigan’s Preschool Inclusion Collective Action Plan
Demonstrated experience with and knowledge of early childhood programs overseen by Marquette-Alger RESA, including Great Start Readiness Program (GSRP), Great Start Collaborative (GSC), and Early On

Responsibilities

Work collaboratively with Director of Early Childhood Education, early childhood education team members, local district staff, and community partners to meet program objectives
Maintain knowledge of GSRP implementation manual and program flexibilities
Ensure grant compliance and promote high quality programming
Utilize professional resources and state networks to provide ongoing technical support for programs
Regularly collaborate with colleagues in the planning, coordinating and delivering of professional learning opportunities to promote continuous growth
Facilitate development of meaningful ongoing program quality improvement goals and objectives with each teaching team, and the program as a whole, based on assessment data
Provide observation, feedback, and coaching for early childhood teachers and paraprofessionals
Create well-developed systems of reporting and data analysis utilizing the Child Observation Record (COR) Advantage system, CLASS observations and feedback resulting in continuous learning in the classroom for teachers and children
Utilize well developed skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening effectively to successfully communicate/collaborate with teachers, educational service providers, administrators, children, and families
Maintain status as a certified reliable trainer and/or assessor in the Classroom Assessment Scoring System (CLASS)
Training in GSRP (Pre-K for All) approved curriculums: Montessori, High Scope, Creative Curriculum, and Reggio
Coordinate and facilitate early childhood data analysis meetings
Lead family participation group meetings, sharing data and strategies for transitioning to kindergarten
Participate in coordinated RESA-wide efforts of recruitment and enrollment for all programs
Demonstrate professionalism and ethical decision-making in working with others
Support and coach teaching teams to implement the curriculum and assessment tool with fidelity
Regularly attend Early Childhood Specialist meetings and professional development
Maintain confidentiality and ensure accurate and timely documentation for all required activities
Perform other duties as assigned