Lansing School District·Lansing, Michigan
The Preschool Specialist provides district-wide support to Universal Preschool classrooms through coaching, modeling, and professional learning to improve instructional and behavioral practices. They also collaborate with leadership and families to facilitate smooth transitions for students moving into kindergarten and early elementary grades.
The Lansing School District serves over 10,000 PreK-12 students across 25 school buildings in the increasingly diverse urban community of Lansing, MI. We are unique compared to other districts because of the wide variety of exciting and innovative educational options from which families and staff members can choose. All of Lansing School District’s team members are dedicated to our mission to provide an excellent education to all students in a safe and nurturing environment.
In pursuit of this mission, we are hiring elementary teachers. This individual will ensure our students receive world-class instruction in a safe and welcoming environment. Teachers must work to build inclusive, nurturing classrooms where students can be themselves and work collaboratively towards common learning goals. Teachers will work alongside other teachers, parents, and students to ensure they are providing the best education experience to all students. \n
\n $50,285 - $95,000 a year
The Preschool Specialist provides district-wide support to Universal Preschool classrooms. Through consultation, coaching, modeling, and professional learning, this position builds staff capacity to implement developmentally appropriate instructional and behavioral practices that support the academic, social-emotional, and behavioral success of all preschool students. The Preschool Specialist also supports smooth transitions from preschool into kindergarten and the early elementary grades.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
● Provide consultation, coaching, and modeling to preschool teachers, paraprofessionals, and administrators in Universal Preschool classrooms. ● Support the implementation of evidence-based instructional, behavioral, and social-emotional practices that promote inclusive, high-quality learning environments. ● Conduct classroom observations and use data to recommend and monitor instructional and behavioral supports. ● Develop and assist teams with individualized supports, accommodations, Student Success Plans, as appropriate. ● Participate in problem-solving team meetings, MTSS, and Child Study meetings to support student success. ● Design and facilitate professional learning focused on early childhood instruction, classroom management, positive behavior supports, social-emotional learning, and inclusive practices. ● Collaborate with Early Childhood leadership and families to coordinate supports across preschool programs. ● Support transition planning for children and families as students move from preschool into kindergarten and the early elementary grades. ● Develop resources, maintain documentation of consultation and coaching activities, and remain current on Michigan early childhood initiatives, special education requirements, and evidence-based practices.
● Valid Michigan teaching certificate, Early Childhood Special Education endorsement, School Psychologist certificate, School Social Worker approval, BCBA certification, or other appropriate credential. ● Minimum of three (3) years of successful experience working in early childhood education or early childhood special education. ● Knowledge of early childhood development and developmentally appropriate practices. ● Experience providing consultation, coaching, and professional learning preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
● Strong knowledge of early childhood instruction, child development, and behavior. ● Ability to coach educators and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and families. ● Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills. ● Commitment to equitable, inclusive, and student-centered practices.
● Ability to travel between district preschool sites. ● Ability to work in classroom settings and safely respond to student needs as required. \n
Candidates must hold a valid Michigan teaching certificate or equivalent professional credential such as a School Psychologist or BCBA certification. A minimum of three years of successful experience in early childhood education or early childhood special education is required.
Market context
Michigan Preschool Specialist opportunities typically seek experienced early childhood professionals who can support young learners and students with disabilities. This role is competitive because applicants need a valid Michigan teaching certificate or equivalent credential, such as School Psychologist or BCBA certification, plus at least three years of successful early childhood experience; listed salaries range from $50,285 to $95,000 annually. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits from the original job description to save research time before applying.