Education Specialist

ICF is seeking an Education Specialist for PreK to Kindergarten Transition to support the Quality Support Center. This vital role will advance high-qualityequitableearly childhood education across Philadelphia by providing technicalassistance professional development instructional coaching and targeted support to early learning providers children and families. The Education Specialist will ensure seamless developmentallyappropriate transitionsfrom PreK to Kindergarten and their work will be guided by the mission commitments and goals of thePreKprogram in collaboration with the Office of Children and Families (OCF). Through evidence-based inclusive and collaborative approaches this position will contribute to strengthening the citys early learning landscape.

PreKis the universal pre-kindergarten initiative dedicated to ensuring that every child has access to high-quality affordable early learning experiences. The programs mission is to promote positive outcomes for children families and communities by:

Expanding access to quality pre-K education for all eligible children

Elevating instructional standards and operational excellence among providers advancing equity inclusion and cultural responsiveness strengthening community partnerships and family engagement. Utilizing data to drive continuous improvement and accountability. This role requires up to 30% local travel within the Greater Philadelphia Area.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide comprehensive on-site and virtual technicalassistanceto PreK providers with a focus on fostering continuous quality improvement ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and guiding effective implementation of the Pennsylvania Keystone STARS framework.
• Develop deliver and evaluate targeted professional development programs and individualized instructional coaching for early childhood educators prioritizing trauma-informed methodologies developmentallyappropriate pedagogicalstrategies and inclusive practices that address the varied learning needs of all children.
• Design lead or coordinate specialized training initiatives for providers and staff in trauma-informed care cultivating classroom environments that are safe nurturing and responsive to the complex needs of children particularly thoseimpactedby adversity or trauma.
• Facilitate access to community-based resources by connecting families and providers with Early Learning Resource Centers comprehensive health and wellness services and evidence-based family engagement programs to strengthen holistic support systems.
• Strategically develop and operationalize transition frameworks including customized plans toolkits and events to ensure seamless and developmentallyappropriate progressionfromPreK to Kindergarten with a strong emphasis on effective communication and collaboration among families early learning providers and receiving elementary schools.
• Lead initiatives to enhance provider engagement and build organizational capacity supporting increased STAR ratings regulatory compliance and the advancement of instructional quality and effectiveness across early learning settings.
• Empower families and communities by providing expert guidance and resources to navigate the PreK to Kindergarten transition process fostering informed participation and continuity of learning experiences.

BasicQualifications:

• BachelorsandMastersdegree in Early Childhood Education Child Development or a related field
• Minimum of5yearsof direct experience in early childhood education withdemonstratedexpertisein instructional coaching professional development or program quality improvement.
• 2 years in experience withPhiladelphia/PA ECE including strong knowledge of Pennsylvanias Keystone STARS and early learning standards

Professional Skills:

• Strong commitment to diversity equity and inclusion; experience with trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with partner agenciesandcommunity organizations
• Ability to manage multiple priorities work independently and collaborate within a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficiencyin data systems reporting tools and Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong interpersonal communication and facilitation skills; ability to build trust and rapport with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity equity and inclusion; experience working with culturally and linguistically diverse populations.
• Organizational skills flexibility and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment.
• Flexible solution-oriented approach with a passion for supporting continuous learning and improvement.
• Relevant certifications (e.g. Child Development Associate Certified Health Education Specialist)stronglypreferred.

Working at ICF

Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position including but not limited to relevant work experience skills certifications and competencies that align to the specified role geographic location education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.

The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is: