Preschool Specialist

Lansing School District; Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 50,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

The Lansing School District is seeking a Preschool Specialist to provide district-wide support for Universal Preschool classrooms. Through consultation, coaching, modeling, and professional learning, you will build staff capacity to implement developmentally appropriate instructional and behavioral practices that support academic, social-emotional, and behavioral success for all preschool students.

You will also assist with transitions into kindergarten and early elementary grades.

Qualifications

• Valid Michigan teaching certificate or equivalent Early Childhood credential.
• Minimum of three years of successful experience in early childhood education or related fields.
• Knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices for preschool-aged children.
• Experience providing consultation, coaching, and professional learning preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide consultation, coaching, and modeling to preschool teachers, paraprofessionals, and administrators in Universal Preschool classrooms.
• Support implementation of evidence-based instructional, behavioral, and social-emotional practices to promote inclusive learning environments.
• Conduct classroom observations and use data to recommend and monitor supports.
• Develop individualized supports, accommodations, and Student Success Plans as appropriate.
• Participate in MTSS and Child Study meetings to support student success.
• Design and facilitate professional learning focused on early childhood instruction and inclusive practices.
• Collaborate with Early Childhood leadership and families to coordinate supports across preschool programs.
• Support transition planning from preschool into kindergarten and early elementary grades.

Skills

Coaching educators

Clear communication

Data-informed decisions

Problem-solving

Education

Michigan teaching certificate/credential

Job description

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.

$50,285 - $95,000 a year

Position Summary

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.

Qualifications

• 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.

Physical Demands

• Ability to travel between district preschool sites.
• Ability to work in classroom settings and safely respond to student needs as required.