Experienced Early Childhood Education Professional - Early Learning Specialist for Head Start and Early Head Start Programs in Clearwater, Florida

Introduction to Lutheran Services Florida

Lutheran Services Florida (LSF) is a renowned organization dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of children, families, and communities. With a vision of a world where children are safe, families are strong, and communities are vibrant, LSF offers a wide range of programs and services across the state of Florida. As a mission-driven organization, LSF provides opportunities for staff members to grow and develop while transforming the lives of those in need.

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Early Learning Specialist to join our team in Clearwater, Florida. As an Early Learning Specialist, you will play a critical role in planning and implementing educational activities for pre-school aged children or infants/toddlers in our Head Start/Early Head Start Program. This is a unique opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young children and their families, while also advancing your career in early childhood education.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, develop, and implement daily lesson plans that provide educational and enrichment activities for pre-school age children or infants and toddlers
• Screen and assess children to determine developmental/educational needs and develop and implement individual education plans
• Monitor meal and snack periods, classroom and restroom activities, and playground activities to ensure a safe environment for young children
• Document children's progress and complete all required manual and computerized forms and reports
• Communicate with parents through parent conferences, written correspondence, and telephone to apprise them of child's progress, upcoming events, classroom activities, individual education plan changes, and other relevant information
• Conduct health checks on children for health concerns, including ringworm, head lice, and other health conditions, and report to the appropriate Health Coordinator
• Ensure lessons and classroom activities align with the Florida Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten Standards and conduct Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten assessments as required
• Maintain a comprehensive and ongoing portfolio assessment for each child, including weekly observations in each area, examples of the child's work, and a developmental assessment

Essential Qualifications

• Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education or a related degree
• Two years of experience teaching Head Start, Early Head Start, pre-school, or kindergarten age children
• Working knowledge of brain development and its impact on early learning
• Working knowledge of child development birth to age five for typical and atypical children
• Working knowledge of culture and practices for early childhood
• Working knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices for early childhood
• Working knowledge of behavior modification theories and practices relating to early childhood development
• Working knowledge of current educational techniques and practices relating to early childhood development

Preferred Qualifications

• Bilingual preferred: English/Spanish or English and other languages present in the local area
• Experience working with children with special needs
• Experience with curriculum development and implementation
• Experience with parent-teacher conferences and communication

Skills and Competencies

• Skill in the application of supervisory techniques
• Skill in verbal communication with infants, toddlers, and pre-school age children
• Skill in resolving conflicts between pre-school age children
• Ability to plan, organize, and supervise the work of others
• Ability to plan, organize, and conduct early childhood education programs
• Ability to implement routine care for infants and toddlers in a responsive environment
• Ability to assume a seated position on the floor, or a bent or kneeled position for extended periods of time
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
• Ability to prepare and maintain work-related reports and files
• Ability to handle confidential information
• Ability to follow established procedures
• Ability to administer CPR and First-Aid
• Ability to implement safety procedures

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

At LSF, we are committed to providing our staff with opportunities for growth and development. As an Early Learning Specialist, you will have access to training and professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge in early childhood education. You will also have the opportunity to work with a talented team of professionals who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families.

Work Environment and Company Culture

LSF offers a dynamic and supportive work environment that is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our staff members are passionate about their work and are dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities. We offer a range of benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, Teladoc, Employee Assistance Program, employer-paid life insurance, and generous PTO policy.

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

We offer a competitive salary and a range of benefits, including:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
• Teladoc (24/7 online access to doctors)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Employer-paid life insurance (1X salary)
• 13 paid holidays + 1 floating holiday
• Generous PTO policy (starting at 16 working days a year)
• 403(b) Retirement plan with 3% discretionary employer match OR 3% student loan repayment reimbursement
• Tuition reimbursement

Conclusion

If you are a motivated and passionate individual who is committed to making a difference in the lives of children and families, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. As an Early Learning Specialist with LSF, you will have the opportunity to work with a talented team of professionals who are dedicated to providing high-quality early childhood education programs. You will also have access to training and professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and knowledge in early childhood education. Don't miss out on this opportunity to advance your career and make a positive impact in your community. Apply now!