Preschool Special Education Expert

Preschool Special Education Expert

ESC of Central Ohio Educational Service Center of Central Ohio – Columbus, Ohio

The SST shall employ the Preschool Special Education Expert for preschool special education‑specific work. The SST shall hire 1 full‑time equivalent for the work.

• A Master's degree or higher in special education or in one of the following areas with a focus, concentration, or licensure in special education or a related service area (speech language pathology, physical therapy, occupational therapy, school psychology, early childhood education, elementary education, child development, family studies, curriculum & instruction, education administration/leadership, psychology, assessment & evaluation).
• At least 3 years of relevant experience providing support and/or services to those who work with preschool‑age children with disabilities in one of the following capacities: administrator/supervisor, professional development provider, technical assistance provider, or teacher mentor.
• Experience in providing support and technical assistance with IDEA Compliance Monitoring.

• IDEA including Least Restrictive Environment, Itinerant Services, Child Outcomes Summary, Part C‑B transition, ETR/IEP writing processes, Play‑Based Assessment, inclusive classroom strategies, and Ohio's Operating Standards for Children with Disabilities.
• Evidence‑based processes and instructional practices, including development and implementation of academic and behavior supports.
• Early childhood development.
• Universal Design for Learning and differentiated instruction.
• Coaching and consultation skills.
• Implementation and monitoring of improvement efforts.
• Delivery of high‑quality professional learning and technical assistance.
• Early childhood education curriculum, preschool special education, early education preschool to grade 3, or other early childhood settings such as Head Start or community‑based child care.
• Specially designed instruction and provision of free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment (special education).
• Parent, family and community engagement.

• Communication – Clear verbal and written communication with colleagues, parents, families and educators.
• Collaboration & Teamwork – Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams/groups, share ideas, and support team goals.
• Empathy & Emotional Intelligence – Understanding others' perspectives and responding appropriately, accepting of constructive criticism.
• Conflict Resolution – Handling disagreements constructively and maintaining positive relationships.
• Active Listening – Paying attention to details and showing respect for others' input.
• Adaptability – Adjusting communication style depending on audience or situation.
• Leadership & Influence – Inspiring and motivating others, even without formal authority.
• Data Analysis & Interpretation – Collect and organize information, identify patterns, trends, draw meaningful conclusions, and communicate insights that support decision‑making.

• Preschool Special Education Experts shall complete professional development and training as required by DCY.
• Preschool Special Education Experts shall participate in DCY‑required in‑person meetings, which will occur at least quarterly, and virtual meetings.

• SUPPORT LOCAL EDUCATION AGENCIES WITH IMPLEMENTATION OF PRESCHOOL SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES AND SUPPORTS IN COMPLIANCE WITH IDEA B 619.
• Full‑time (180 days + additional contract days as needed).
• Adhere to the Department of Children and Youth's policies and procedures and support the Department's goals and mission.
• Respond to requests from the Department of Children and Youth Preschool Special Education team to provide input on special education related rules, guidance, resources, trainings, projects and/or surveys.
• Attend a national early childhood conference at least once every three years.
• Conduct a needs assessment to identify areas where an educational agency needs targeted support, training, professional development and/or coaching. Assessment areas include:
  Indicator 6 Preschool…