Pre-k Support Specialist

Easterseals DC MD VA, we know that creating a hopeful, inclusive community where all people realize their potential and live meaningful lives can be done only when we value our greatest asset – our staff. More than 200 employees across the greater Washington, DC area, from Hagerstown, Maryland, to Falls Church, Virginia, value the rewarding work that enables Easterseals to lead the way to 100% equity, inclusion, and access for people with disabilities, families, and communities.

If you want to do well while doing good, Easterseals DC MD VA may be the place for you.

Core Values

• Our entire staff shares our Core Values which are an integral component of the success of ESDCMDVA:
• Respect: We respect each other. We value the uniqueness and dignity of each individual and appreciate the strength of diversity and inclusion.
• Responsibility: We share a sense of responsibility for doing things right, being good stewards and being accountable for our actions.
• Integrity: We conduct business ethically with a commitment to moral integrity and we expect people to hold a high moral standard. We communicate openly, honestly and directly.
• Innovation: We embrace new ideas, take measured risks and find better ways to help more people.
• Care: We show compassion for others and continue to live our mission each day.

Easterseals

Job Description

Job Title: Pre-K Support Specialist

Department: Education

Location: Prince Georges County (Allentown Road and Marlboro Pike)

Reports to: Education Manager

FLSA Classification: Exempt

Job Summary

The Pre-K Support Specialist provides instructional, behavioral, and developmental support to Pre-K classrooms. This role ensures high-quality early childhood education by coaching teachers, supporting children with diverse needs, and promoting school readiness aligned with program standards such as Head Start ELOF, state early learning standards, and developmentally appropriate practices.

Duties/Responsibilities: Classroom support & instruction

· Support teachers in implementing MSDE-approved, developmentally appropriate curricula (e.g, Frog Street).

· Ensure alignment with

• Maryland Early Learning Standards (MELS)
• College and Career Ready Standards (CCR)

· Model effective instructional strategies, including

• Intentional teaching
• Small group instruction
• Differentiated learning
• Assist in creating engaging, culturally responsive, and inclusive learning environments.

• Child development & individualization
• Support children with developmental delays, disabilities, or behavioral needs.
• Collaborate on Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and Individual Family Service Plans (IFSPs).
• Help implement individualized strategies and accommodations in the classroom.
• Monitor child progress and provide feedback to teaching staff.

• Coaching & professional support
• Provide on-site coaching and mentoring to teachers and assistants.
• Assist staff in using assessment tools such as Teaching Strategies GOLD.
• Support teachers in understanding child development and best practices.
• Participate in professional development and facilitate training as needed.

• Family engagement
• Partner with families to support children’s learning and development.
• Provide resources, strategies, and referrals (e.g., early intervention services).
• Participate in family conferences and home visits when appropriate.

• Collaboration & compliance
• Ensure compliance with Head Start Performance Standards and state licensing regulations.
• Assist with classroom observations (e.g., CLASS, ECERS/ITERS) and follow-up support plans.
• Maintain accurate documentation and reports in relation to Pre K requirements.
• Support documentation and record-keeping for:
• Child assessments
• Individualization plans
• Classroom observations
• Participate in MSDE monitoring visits, audits, and quality assurance activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field.
• Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in a Pre-K or early childhood setting.
• Experience with Head Start/Early Head Start programs preferred.
• Knowledge of:
• Child development (birth to age 5)
• Early learning standards (e.g., ELOF, state standards such as MSDE)
• Curriculum and assessment tools (Creative Curriculum, Frog Street, Teaching Strategies GOLD)
• Strong coaching, communication, and collaboration skills.
• Assessment & Documentation – Proficiency in observing and assessing children’s development using tools such as Teaching Strategies GOLD, and maintaining timely, accurate records.
• Technology Literacy – Comfortable with digital tools and platforms used in education and communication (e.g., ChildPlus, Microsoft Office, Google Workspace).
• Demonstrated skills and abilities in a management capacity relevant to human services program management.
• Training and experience in areas that include: The theories and principles of child growth and development, early childhood education and family support.
• Obtain/Maintain certification in CPR and First Aid.
• Obtain/Maintain CLASS reliability for Pre K
• Physical exam and background checks are required for this position.
• Travel required locally or long-distance up to 10% of the time for work-related meetings and functions.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

(Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.)

We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

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