Position Summary
The Program Assessment Specialist oversees the CLASS® assessment program, ensuring full compliance with rules 6M-4.740 and 6M-8.621. This role is responsible for implementing, monitoring, and continuously improving assessment protocols; overseeing the assessment team; and ensuring accuracy in all required reporting. The Specialist also develops and facilitates training initiatives, supports quality improvement efforts, and completes special projects as assigned by Coalition leadership.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Ensure all assessment practices align with state rules, contractual requirements, and ELC guidelines.
- Develop, implement, and monitor program benchmarks, work plans, and quality improvement strategies.
- Make referrals to DCF or other entities when VPK or SR non-compliance issues are identified.
- Oversee assessment scheduling, assignment consistency, and accuracy of reporting.
- Ensure assessment summary reports are completed on time and meet quality standards.
- Maintain accurate data across all required databases and information systems.
Leadership & Supervision
- Assist with the recruitment, selection, and training of Early Childhood Assessors.
- Provide ongoing technical, administrative, and field-based support to assessment staff.
- Communicate and coordinate efforts with all internal departments to support program alignment.
- Assist in identifying quality materials and participate in inventory management and distribution of provider resource materials.
Technical Assistance (TA) & Training
- Conduct periodic reliability visits and review assessor documentation to ensure consistency and integrity of scoring.
- Design and deliver training activities, including onboarding, coaching sessions, and refresher training for assessors and relevant staff.
- Provide expertise, coaching, and technical assistance in Coalition-approved programs and trainings (including but not limited to: CLASS and Teaching Strategies GOLD).
- Develop and maintain positive, professional relationships within provider settings.
- Coach providers in implementing recommended improvements to support enhanced quality, accreditation, and licensing compliance.
Professional Development
- Achieve and maintain reliability in all assessment tools used by the ELC.
- Participate in required training programs to remain current on best practices in early childhood education and assessment.
- Participate in Coach, Assessor, and/or Train-the-Trainer programs as requested.
- Complete all mandated professional development activities.
- Perform additional assignments and special projects as requested.
Collaboration & Communication
- Serve as a liaison with program directors and providers, addressing inquiries and maintaining productive relationships that support the mission and vision of the assessment department.
- Participate in internal and external planning, coordination, and partnership meetings.
Reporting & Analysis
- Prepare weekly, monthly, and annual reports on assessment activities, trends, and outcomes as requested.
- Support the annual comprehensive assessment of Coalition programs.
- Complete special projects assigned by Coalition leadership.
Education: BA/BS degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or related field
Skills:
· Minimum of three (3) years of experience in Early Childhood Education with responsibilities related to assessment, professional development, reporting/data analysis, and/or experience working in early childhood education or childcare settings.
· Preferred CLASS certification (Infant, Toddler, Pre-K) and experience with Teaching Strategies GOLD.
· Knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices and norm-referenced assessments in early childhood.
· Experience facilitating training for adult learners.
· Ability to work effectively with diverse populations.
· Experience designing and implementing training activities, materials, and resources.
· Strong leadership, supervisory, and team-building skills.
· Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and manage multiple priorities.
· Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including advanced Excel skills (complex spreadsheets, data analysis).
· Strong data management and reporting abilities; capacity to learn new systems quickly.
· Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
· Strong written and verbal communication skills with high standards for accuracy and professionalism.
· Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective relationships across diverse populations.
· Ability to work collaboratively with early education providers, educators, children, families, and stakeholders.
· Ability to solve problem, adapt to change, and provide high-quality customer service.
· Ability to interpret and apply relevant rules, regulations, and procedures accurately.
· Language: Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
· Performs other duties as assigned.
Other Requirements: Valid Florida driver’s license, reliable transportation, and ability to pass a Level II background screening.
Pay: $54,000.00 - $76,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 403(b)
- 403(b) matching
- AD&D insurance
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Do you have experience using the CLASS (Classroom assessment scoring system) ?
- Do you have experience coaching and or supporting early childhood educators to improve instructional interactions or classroom quality.?
- Do you have experience in coordinating multiple projects or responsibilities while ensuring accuracy and compliance?
- Have you been responsible for interpreting data and using it to develop action plans, training, or coaching strategies that improve program quality.
- This position requires frequent travel to early learning programs through the service area and working independently while manage multiple priorities. Are you able to meet those requirements?
Work Location: In person
