Lead Early Childhood Professional Development Specialist

The Chicago Public Schools (CPS) has set ambitious goals to ensure that every childin every school and every neighborhoodhas access to a world-class learning experience from birth, resulting in graduation from high school college- and career-ready.

The Lead Early Childhood Professional Development Specialist works in collaboration with the Office of Early Childhood Education Manager of Curriculum and Instruction and other department staff to implement instructional supports for early childhood classrooms. The Lead Early Childhood Professional Development Specialist works with OECE leadership to develop and implement staff development opportunities for all early childhood stakeholders throughout the district.

In order to be successful, the Lead Early Childhood Professional Development Specialist must possess the following qualifications:

• Work in collaboration with the Manager of Curriculum and Instruction to implement the OECE vision for instructional quality.
  
  
• Work in collaboration with Professional Development, Instructional Support Specialists and Head Teachers to support the implementation of district initiatives.
  
  
• Ensure curriculum and assessment supports individualized instruction for children.
  
  
• Provide support to teachers, principals, and network staff on Office of Early Childhood guidance and approaches.
  
  
• Manage the development and implementation of professional development plans to enhance the skills and knowledge of district stakeholders.
  
  
• Manage the development of ongoing professional learning that aligns with district and community goals.
  
  
• Analyze data to inform instructional support.
  
  
• Conduct site visits to monitor and support Professional Development Specialists.
  
  
• Prepare and monitor for REACH evaluations.
  
  
• Keep current with research in the field of early childhood education and professional learning.
  
  
• Perform related duties as required.
  
  

Type of Education Preferred:

• Master's Degree in Early Childhood Education
  
  

Type of Experience and Number of Years:

• Minimum 5 years of work experience working in early childhood classrooms, Chicago Public School experience preferred
  
  
• Minimum 3 years working as an Early Childhood Coach preferred
  
  

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Excellent organizational skills and ability to effectively multi task.
  
  
• Ability to direct, problem solve, develop and delegate as situations dictate.
  
  
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing with all stakeholders.
  
  
• Ability to use a range or technology and tools, including but not limited to Microsoft, Oracle, and Google.
  
  
• Ability to work independently as well as to function effectively and collaboratively in a team environment.
  
  
• Maintain accurate records and files.
  
  
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with those contacted in the course of work
  
  
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive or privileged information.
  
  

Residency Requirement:

As a condition of employment with the Chicago Public Schools (CPS), employees are required to live within the geographic boundaries of the City of Chicago within six months of his or her CPS hire date and maintain residency throughout their employment with the district.