Early Childhood Education Specialist

Under general supervision, maintains responsibility for assigned classroom or group of children ages 19 months to five years in a child development laboratory school; maintains a developmentally appropriate child-centered program in accordance with the lab school's program philosophy, goals and objectives; plans and implements curriculum; assesses progress and development of children assigned to a classroom/group; when appropriate, meets with parents to discuss their child's progress; models developmentally appropriate educational techniques for Early Childhood Education (ECE) students; and performs related duties as assigned. The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations. Responsibilities Supervises and interacts directly with children both inside and outside of the classroom; implements a program consistent with child development theory and practices; meets the needs of children, families and staff; provides oral and written language experiences appropriate to each child's level of readiness, interest and developmental capability. Plans, designs, supervises and implements a developmentally appropriate program for children ages 24 months to five years; incorporates developmentally and culturally appropriate activities; recommends supplies that reflect community diversity; provides models for children to maintain primary language and culture while acquiring a second language. Observes and mentors ECE practicum students; demonstrates and provides mentoring on developmentally appropriate methods and practices; monitors and provides feedback on student interactions and performance. Conducts DRDP assessments; writes objective developmental descriptions; holds bi-annual conferences with parents to review expectations and progress. Develops and implements conflict management and problem-solving strategies with children; assists children in identifying concerns and solutions. Assists with nutritional and food handling guidelines; follows appropriate procedures and safety precautions. Provides instruction to children on hygiene procedures; follows universal health precautions and written plans for spills. Follows emergency procedures, including first aid and CPR; informs staff and parents of policies and assists in drills. Maintains all adult and child areas clean, safe, sanitary and orderly; conducts inspections and reports needs; monitors outdoor play areas. Invites and encourages family participation; provides information about community resources. Follows child abuse reporting procedures as mandated by law. Demonstrates sensitivity to historically minoritized groups and participates in professional development to increase cultural competency and equity-minded practices. Other Duties Notifies the Lab School Manager of inventory needs. Maintains up-to-date records on children and families. Participates in staff meetings, conferences, workshops and training. Substitutes for absent staff members. Performs related duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of Principles and practices of child growth and development. Current Desired Results (DRDP), Infant/Toddler Environmental Rating Scale (ITERS) and/or Early Childhood Environmental Rating Scale (ECERS). State of California Title 5 and Title 22 licensing requirements. NAEYC accreditation standards. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and other relevant laws. Health, safety and nutrition requirements. Methods of observing, recording and evaluating behavior. Principles of student‑teacher mentoring. Health and safety regulations for childcare. Pediatric emergency first aid and CPR procedures. Skills and Abilities Develop effective relationships with children, families, staff and students. Design and implement developmentally appropriate, culturally sensitive learning activities. Observe and analyze children’s development and provide feedback. Analyze situations accurately and adopt effective courses of action. Work confidentially and with discretion. Engage in interpersonal communication, negotiation and conflict resolution. Administer first aid and CPR when needed. Support historically minoritized groups and address equity issues. Communicate effectively, orally and in writing. Understand and follow written and oral instructions. Operate a computer and standard business software. Build effective working relationships with all stakeholders. Education and Experience Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in child development, early childhood education or a closely related field; at least two years of experience teaching in a licensed early childhood education setting; or equivalent combination of training and experience. For centers that provide care for infants less than 24 months of age, additional units in infant/toddler development are required. Licenses, Certificates, and Other Requirements A valid California Child Development Site Supervisor Permit. Current pediatric CPR & First Aid certifications from the American Red Cross, American Heart Association or equivalent. Proof of completion of Preventative Health and Safety Training within 30 days of hire. Physical and Mental Demands Physical Demands Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, sitting, crouching, running, lifting or moving children, equipment, and furniture up to 50 pounds. Requires close and distance vision. Must speak or hear to supervise children. Mental Demands Use of written and oral communication skills; reading and interpreting data; problem solving; observing and interpreting situations; learning new information; multitasking; handling constant interruptions; interacting with District managers, staff, public and others. Working Environment Early childhood classrooms and outdoor yard spaces with young children 24 months to five years; exposure to bodily fluids, odors, communicable diseases, hazardous chemicals; stressful classroom situations; possible travel to other locations; work schedule changes; overtime may be required. SCCCD is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering innovation and inclusivity. We respond proactively to diverse community needs and welcome individuals excited to join our District’s purpose to support student success. United, we the faculty, classified professionals and administrators pledge to treat all applicants and employees fairly and equitably. #J-18808-Ljbffr