MSD Residential Child & Youth Care Practitioner - Substitute (Contractual Position)

Introduction Anticipated openings for the 2026‑2027 School Year. The Maryland School for the Deaf provides an inclusive, language‑rich environment for deaf and hard of hearing students from birth through age 21. Rooted in a bilingual education approach, we ensure full access to American Sign Language and English across comprehensive academic, extracurricular, and student life programs. In partnership with families and communities, we empower students to think critically and develop a sense of self and belonging. Location of Position MSD, Columbia Campus, 8169 Old Montgomery Road, Ellicott City, MD 21043 Work Schedules Second Shift: Sunday (4 PM – 12 AM) and Monday–Thursday (2 PM – 10 PM) 8‑hour shifts; or Monday–Thursday (2 PM – 12 AM) 10‑hour shifts. Overnight Shift: Monday–Friday (12 AM – 8 AM) 8‑hour shifts; or Monday‑evening – Friday‑morning (10 PM – 8 AM) 10‑hour shifts. Main Purpose of Job A Residential Child and Youth Care Practitioner (RCYCP) at the Maryland School for the Deaf is responsible for providing guidance to deaf and hard of hearing students by serving as a mentor and role model, offering advice and assistance with everyday life skills, and providing referrals to other staff at the Maryland School for the Deaf. Position Duties Maintain a safe environment and keep students under direct supervision at all times. Communicate with students to discuss their problems and offer guidance, serving as a mentor and role model for assimilation into deaf culture. Monitor students and assist them in complying with daily and weekly schedules of completing homework, sleeping, eating, and performing personal hygiene. Observe and interact with students to prevent conflicts and minimize disturbances. Under the direction of the supervisor, devise and dispense rewards and punishments within specified guidelines to ensure compliance with school rules and policies. Document and report student problems to the RCYCP Supervisor. Supplement classroom instruction by tutoring students in academic subjects. Maintain strict confidentiality of students and school personnel information. Perform other related duties as required. Minimum Qualifications Education: Must be either 21 years old with graduation from an accredited high school or possession of a high school equivalency certificate. Alternatively, at least 18 years old with an Associate of Arts degree or a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Experience: 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. Candidates may substitute additional education at the rate of sixty credit hours for the required experience. Fluency in American Sign Language is required. Desired or Preferred Qualifications Knowledge of the physical, emotional and social aspects of deafness. Skill in American Sign Language sufficient to permit fluent and accurate communication with students and parents. Skill in written English sufficient to permit 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 with other employees. Licenses, Registrations, and Certifications Required to obtain and maintain RCYCP certification. May be assigned duties requiring operation of a motor vehicle; must possess a valid Maryland motor vehicle operator’s license. Must be trained and certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and first‑aid; certifications must be kept current. Special Requirements Required proficiency in American Sign Language and written English. Must pass a medical examination and an annual tuberculosis screening. Subject to substance abuse testing in accordance with Code of Maryland Regulations 17.04.09. Required to apply for a criminal background check. Provide three letters of recommendation. Selection Process Applications will be prescreened prior to invitation for an interview. As an equal opportunity employer, the Maryland School for the Deaf is committed to recruiting, retaining, and promoting employees who are reflective of the State's diversity. Benefits Contractual employees who work at least 30 hours per week may be eligible for subsidized health benefits coverage for themselves and their dependents. The State of Maryland will subsidize 75% of the cost; employees pay 25% of premiums. Additional coverage options include dental, accidental death and dismemberment insurance, and life insurance (employees pay full premium). Leave may be granted at a rate of one hour for every 30 hours worked, not to exceed 40 hours per calendar year. #J-18808-Ljbffr Maryland School for the Deaf