The Early Childhood Special Educator is responsible for assessing, planning, and providing direct and indirect specialized instruction to young children (ages three to 6) who exhibit developmental delays or identified disabilities. This role involves developing and implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and families, and creating inclusive, safe, and nurturing learning environments.This position involves multiple school based sites as well as traveling to local child care partners. Essential Responsibilities & Essential Functions1. Instruction & Program ImplementationDesign, implement, and adapt developmentally appropriate curriculum and specialized instructional strategies tailored to each childs unique needs.Deliver direct instruction in one-on-one, small group, and inclusive early childhood classroom settings.Provide itinerant/consultative support to general education pre-K teachers and community childcare providers.2.
IEP Management & ComplianceManage case files and ensure full compliance with district, state, and federal guidelines (IDEA Part B and Part C).Facilitate or participate in IEP team meetings with parents, service providers, and administrators.Draft measurable annual goals, benchmarks, accommodations, and modifications.Monitor, collect, and report progress data regularly to document growth toward student outcomes.3. Assessment & EvaluationAdminister formal and informal developmental screeners, diagnostic assessments, and observations to determine special education eligibility (Child Find process).Synthesize evaluation results into comprehensive written reports to present to multidisciplinary teams and families.4. Collaboration & TeamworkCollaborate closely with related service personnel (Speech-Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, School Psychologists, and Behavior Specialists).Supervise and guide classroom educational assistants, paraprofessionals, or personal care aides.Facilitate smooth educational transitions for young learners (e.g., from Early Intervention/Part C into Early Childhood Special Education/Part B, or into Kindergarten).5. Family & Community EngagementEstablish and maintain positive, respectful partnerships with parents, guardians, and caregivers.Guide and empower families to support their childs learning, behavior, and skill development in daily routines at home and in the community.Qualifications & RequirementsEducation: Bachelors or Masters degree in Early Childhood Special Education, Special Education, or Early Childhood Education.Licensure: Valid State Teaching License/Certification in Early Childhood Special Education (or eligible for endorsement).Knowledge: Strong background in early childhood development, trauma-informed practices, positive behavior support systems, and special education law.Skills: Excellent oral and written communication, strong organizational abilities, empathy, patience, and collaborative problem-solving.
