FY25: Program Specialist, PEP Program, 1.0 FTE

Job Description

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION:

Under direction, assists in managing the day-to-day operations of the Preschool Education Program (PEP) for children ages three through five, who have disabilities in two or more developmental areas. Consults with staff (teachers, related service providers, parent educators, and Paraeducators) and provides direct support about curricular, procedural, developmental, behavioral, and transitional issues related to students, teams, and school staff. Provides behavior management support and training to staff and parents. Collaborates with other offices in special education, general pre-kindergarten, and kindergarten.

CERTIFICATE LICENSE:

Meets Maryland state certification requirements for special education teacher or related services providers. Certification for early childhood special education preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:

Thorough knowledge of federal and state legislation related to the provision of services to pre-kindergarteners with developmental delays; knowledge of typical and atypical development of young children and educational techniques; ability to use technology applications for pre-kindergarten students; knowledge of services available to young students with disabilities and the transition to kindergarten; ability to assist staff in identifying problems and generating solutions to address the learning needs of pre-kindergarten students; ability to handle multiple tasks at a time; excellent organizational skills for managing student information, developing schedules, and providing support at multiple countywide sites; knowledge of early literacy, math curriculum and legal implications; ability to support teaching and paraprofessional staff with professional development plans. Excellent communication and human relations skills.

EDUCATION, TRAINING, and EXPERIENCE:

Master's degree or master's equivalency from an accredited college/university with emphasis on students with special needs; background in early childhood development, developmental disabilities, and working with parents and families. Minimum of three years experience as a special educator or related service provider; experience teaching pre-kindergarten special education desired; experience working with school-based and central office staff administrators and service providers preferred; experience designing and delivering staff training required. Other combinations of applicable education, training and experience that provide the knowledge, abilities and skills necessary to perform effectively in the position may be considered.