Education Specialist
Position Summary
The Education Specialist is responsible for ensuring the full implementation of Head Start program goals, educational policies, and Head Start Performance Standards across all assigned centers. This position provides leadership in instructional quality, compliance monitoring, staff development, and classroom support to promote high-quality early childhood education and successful transitions for children and families.
Instructional Leadership & Classroom Support
The Education Specialist provides leadership and guidance to teaching staff to strengthen classroom practices and improve child outcomes. This includes observing classroom instruction, reviewing teacher performance, and providing on-site coaching and feedback.
The specialist recommends behavioral and instructional strategies that support individual child development, classroom management, and high-quality learning environments.
Staff Supervision & Evaluation
The Education Specialist conducts ongoing supervision and annual evaluations of teaching staff to ensure adherence to program expectations, licensing regulations, Head Start Performance Standards, and individual child developmental plans.
The position requires a minimum of two weekly classroom observations and one home visit per teacher to monitor compliance and support staff growth.
Coaching, Training & Professional Development
The Education Specialist provides coaching and professional development to teaching teams based on classroom observations, program goals, and staff needs.
This role includes participation in language and literacy training and delivery of literacy-focused coaching to support children’s school readiness and early learning outcomes.
The specialist also maintains required mentor-coach competencies in accordance with federal requirements.
Compliance, Reporting & Program Monitoring
The Education Specialist monitors classroom compliance with Head Start Performance Standards, licensing requirements, and educational policies.
Monthly reports and data summaries are submitted to the Head Start Director. The specialist also participates in administrative meetings, program self-assessments, and the annual review and update of the Education Service Delivery Plan.
School Readiness & Transition Planning
The Education Specialist supports successful transitions for children and families by coordinating transition activities, identifying school-based liaisons, and assisting teachers with planning transition events.
The specialist collaborates with the Health/Disabilities Specialist to develop individualized transition plans for children with disabilities and ensures alignment with the School Readiness Plan.
Classroom Materials & Program Resources
The Education Specialist assesses classroom equipment, materials, and instructional resource needs to ensure teaching staff have the tools necessary to provide effective early childhood education services.
This includes communicating needs, supporting classroom readiness, and helping maintain appropriate learning environments.
Communication & Administrative Support
The Education Specialist maintains effective communication with education staff, program leadership, families, and community partners.
Additional responsibilities include assisting with staff interviews, supporting mandated reporting requirements, and exercising sound professional judgment in all program-related matters.
Waverly Site Responsibilities
At the Waverly site, the Education Specialist also oversees daily building operations. Responsibilities include conducting monthly inspections and fire drills, supervising food services, and communicating with parents regarding children’s progress, development, and behaviors.
