Early Childhood Clinical Specialist, Learning and Belonging School

Overview

The Learning and Belonging (LAB) School invites applications for an Early Childhood Clinical Specialist to join their team. The Early Childhood Clinical Specialist collaborates with the LAB Director to deliver a high-quality preschool program that serves children, families, and the University of Montana community. This academic‑year position develops and implements developmentally appropriate curriculum, teaches full‑day preschool sessions, mentors UM students in clinical experiences, and supports program operations.

• Collaborate with the Director to develop, implement, and evaluate a high‑quality preschool curriculum aligned with NAEYC, Montana DPHHS, and Montana STARS standards.
• Foster collaborative partnerships with teachers, faculty, specialists, and families to support children’s learning and development.
• Maintain strong family engagement through regular communication, conferences, orientations, and family events.
• Coordinate curriculum alignment with university programs and support research and interdisciplinary partnerships.
• Supervise student employees and support staff by setting priorities, providing guidance, and monitoring performance.
• Assist with preschool operations, including licensing, accreditation, record‑keeping, and administrative responsibilities.
• Represent the Preschool through community outreach, professional meetings, educational tours, and professional development opportunities.
• Support program communications and engagement through newsletters, social media, family resources, and special events.

• BA in early childhood education, elementary education, or a related field (e.g., early intervention, child development).
• Minimum 3 years teaching experience as a lead teacher in an early childhood program or classroom (Preschool through grade
  3).
• Hold a Level 6 on the Montana Early Childhood Project Practitioner Registry or achieve a Level 6 within one year of employment.
• Knowledge of evidence‑based early childhood practices, including inclusive education, positive behavior support, and high‑quality curriculum implementation.
• Ability to mentor and support university students in clinical experiences using evidence‑based teaching practices.
• Commitment to continuous learning, incorporating feedback, and improving teaching, supervision, and professional practice.
• Strong written, verbal, interpersonal, and relationship‑building skills with diverse children, families, students, and colleagues.
• Ability to build collaborative partnerships with families to support children’s learning and development.
• Strong organizational, multitasking, time‑management, and sound decision‑making skills.
• Experience developing and delivering professional presentations and training.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and other standard computer applications.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and handle confidential information with discretion.

• Compensation
  
  Title:
  
  Public Education Specialist
• Union: FOCUS‑MFPE
• Work Schedule:
  
  Full‑time, 1.0 FTE (40 hours per week), Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, Academic Year (10 months/yr, August through May).
• Probationary Period:
  Six (6) months minimum.

• Insurance package
• Mandatory retirement plan
• Partial tuition waiver
• Wellness program

UM Affiliation is an equal‑opportunity employer. UM Affiliation does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of protected class status as described in UM’s non‑discrimination policy and any applicable law. Reasonable accommodations are provided in the hiring process for persons with disabilities. Qualified candidates may request veterans’ or disabilities preference in accordance with state law.