MSD Residential Child & Youth Care Practitioner - Substitute

Educational Svc. • Frederick, MD

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The Maryland School for the Deaf is accepting applications to establish a pool of qualified substitutes to provide temporary, as-needed dormitory coverage for anticipated openings during the 2026–2027 school year, from September 2026 through January 2027. Positions are available on either the Second Shift or Overnight Shift at the Frederick Campus. The available schedules are Second Shift: Sunday 4 PM–12 AM and Monday–Thursday 2 PM–10 PM, or Monday–Thursday 2 PM–12 AM; Overnight Shift: Monday–Friday 12 AM–8 AM, or Monday evening–Friday morning 10 PM–8 AM.

The practitioner provides guidance to deaf and hard of hearing students, serving as a mentor and role model while helping them develop everyday life skills and referring them to other school staff when appropriate. Work is generally supervised by a Residential Child and Youth Care Practitioner Supervisor or designated administrator. Employees may travel for field trips, workshops, and recreational activities, and may be asked to work evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.

Applicants must meet one of the stated age and education pathways: be at least 21 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalency certificate, or be at least 18 years old and hold an associate or bachelor's degree. The position also requires one year of experience guiding deaf and hard of hearing youth and assisting with everyday life skills in a student life setting; qualifying additional college education may substitute for experience at 60 credit hours per year. Fluency in American Sign Language is required, as is proficiency in written English. Employees must obtain and maintain RCYCP certification, complete required CPR and first-aid training and keep those certifications current, and meet applicable medical screening, drug testing, and background-check requirements. Three letters of recommendation are required.

Requirements

• Meet one of the following education and age requirements: be at least 21 years old and have graduated from an accredited high school or possess a high school equivalency certificate; or be at least 18 years old and possess an associate or bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
• Have one year of experience providing guidance to deaf and hard of hearing youth and assisting them with everyday life skills in a student life setting. Additional education from an accredited college or university may substitute at a rate of 60 credit hours for the required experience.
• Be fluent and proficient in American Sign Language.
• Be proficient in written English.
• Obtain and maintain RCYCP certification.
• Complete CPR and first-aid training leading to certification and keep the certifications current.
• Pass a medical examination and annual tuberculosis screening.
• Submit to substance abuse testing as required by Maryland regulations.
• Apply for a criminal background check.
• Provide three letters of recommendation.
• Possess a valid Maryland motor vehicle operator's license if assigned duties requiring operation of a motor vehicle.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of the physical, emotional, and social aspects of deafness.
• American Sign Language skills sufficient for fluent and accurate communication with students and parents.
• Written English skills sufficient for fluent and accurate communication with students and parents who are not proficient in American Sign Language.
• Ability to learn emergency medical procedures.
• Ability to maintain a dormitory environment conducive to positive student development.
• Ability to work harmoniously with students and other employees.

Responsibilities

• Maintain a safe environment and keep students under direct supervision at all times.
• Communicate with students about their problems, offer guidance, and serve as a mentor and role model in their assimilation into deaf culture.
• Monitor students and assist them with daily and weekly schedules, including homework, sleeping, eating, and personal hygiene.
• Observe and interact with students to prevent conflicts and minimize disturbances.
• Under supervisor direction, devise and dispense rewards and punishments within specified guidelines to support compliance with school rules and policies.
• Document and report student problems to the RCYCP Supervisor.
• Supplement classroom instruction by tutoring students in academic subjects when needed.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of information about students and school personnel.
• Perform other related duties.

Benefits

• Contractual employees who meet the eligibility requirements may receive subsidized health and prescription coverage for themselves and eligible dependents. The employee pays 25% of premiums and the State of Maryland subsidizes the remaining 75%.
• Eligible employees may elect dental coverage, accidental death and dismemberment insurance, and life insurance, with the employee responsible for the full premiums.
• Contractual employees may be granted leave at a rate of one hour for every 30 hours worked, up to 40 hours per calendar year.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED