Position Overview:
As an integral member of our team, the Education Specialist plays a critical role in elevating the quality of educational practices, fostering exceptional adult-child interactions, and helps to create a high-quality, supportive learning environment. This position is instrumental in empowering the site and teaching staff through direct support and professional collaboration.
Pay:
Hours & Location
- Mon-Fri
- Hours may vary, but should be similar to: Mon-Thurs [7:30am-5:00pm] & Fri [7:30am-11:30am]
- Various Sites within Kent County
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Provide hands-on support in classrooms as a content expert, building teachers confidence in consistently implementing a high-quality learning environment.
- Cultivate a proactive and positive approach to behavior guidance, modeling and teaching approved guidance models, ultimately building strong adult-child relationships.
- Collaborate with site staff, and teaching staff in classrooms facing challenges to assess needs and recommend actionable changes for success.
- Support site staff in a proactive approach centered on building positive relationships, guided by the Pyramid Model.
- Help teaching staff optimize room arrangements and prepare spaces thoughtfully to create safe, engaging classrooms and extend learning opportunities outdoors with attention to expectations for outdoor environments.
Required Education and Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree or higher with a stated major in Early Childhood Education or Child Development (or) a bachelor’s degree or higher in a child-related field including 18 credit hours in Early Childhood Education or Child Development and 480 hours of experience (or) a bachelor’s degree in any area that includes a minimum of 18 credit hours in Early Childhood Education or Child Development and 1920 hours of experience.
- Must have or complete a minimum of two years direct experience with children (age 0-5) in a teaching capacity.
- Knowledge of and experience with Head Start Performance Standards and State of Michigan Child Care Licensing Rules preferred.
- Must obtain and maintain CPR /First Aide within 90 days.
- Proficient skills in the use of Microsoft Office
Benefits: Health insurance, Paid time off, Dental insurance, 401(k), Vision insurance, Flexible schedule, Tuition reimbursement, Life insurance, Retirement plan, Referral program, Flexible spending account, Health savings account, Parental leave, Professional development assistance, Employee assistance program
DISCLAIMER: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the agency. Employees in this position must be able to perform the essential job functions of this position with reasonable accommodation.