Early Childhood Inclusion Support Specialist

The Need

Promotional & Open Opportunity to fill a current vacancy, up to 7.5 hours per day, 185 days per year Itinerant assignment, (Jumpstart sites within Ventura Unified School District), and to establish an eligibility list for future vacancies. The established list will remain in effect for six (6) months. Employment is for the duration of the grant-funded program only.

Below is a summary of the basic function of the position and scope of responsibilities. For a complete job description (classification specification), including a list of typical duties, and required skills, knowledge and abilities, please visit the Classified Human Resources Office.

Under general direction, collaborates with preschool instructional staff to strengthen inclusive practices for young children by aligning assessments with daily instruction. Promotes inclusive play-based learning environments through behavioral consultation, staff coaching, intervention planning, and developmentally appropriate instructional strategies supporting students with diverse developmental, behavioral, social-emotional, and learning needs.

Distinguishing Characteristics This position focuses on practice-based coaching, a job-embedded, evidence-based framework designed to enhance practitioners' knowledge and implementation of effective strategies. The role supports practitioners in learning about and applying evidence-based embedded instructional practices to promote positive outcomes for young children with disabilities or those at risk, as well as their families.

This position differs from the Behavior Support Specialist classification in that its responsibilities emphasize preschool inclusion support, staff collaboration, classroom-based implementation strategies, and developmentally appropriate behavioral supports within play-based instructional settings. In contrast, the Behavior Support Specialist role focuses on formal behavioral assessment, functional behavioral analysis, and district-level behavior case management services.

Education Associate degree or higher from an accredited college or university in Child Development, Early Childhood Education, Psychology, Behavioral Sciences, Special Education, or a closely related field.

OR Possession of a valid California teaching credential related to preschool, early childhood, or special education instruction.

Experience At least three (3) years of increasingly responsible professional experience supporting preschool-aged children and/or students with disabilities within instructional, behavioral intervention, early childhood education, inclusive classroom, or related educational settings. Experience implementing developmentally appropriate behavioral supports, intervention strategies, and collaborative classroom practices is preferred.

Licenses and Certifications Nonviolent Crisis Prevention and Intervention (NCPI) certification (required) Practice-Based Coaching (PBC) certification – must be obtained within six (6) months of hire BCBA certification (preferred) or Child Development Teacher Permit (preferred) Valid First Aid and CPR certification (must be current)

Testing Information The examination process may be comprised of multiple choice exam, performance assessment, computer skills exam, or any combination of assessment appropriate to determine technical ability to perform the duties listed in the job description.

Step 1:
Application Screening (pass/fail) This portion of the examination consists of an application screening used to evaluate the applicant's education, training, and experience relevant to the position. This portion is designed to gain an overall assessment of each applicant's education and experience as it directly relates to the duties and the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for this position. It is important to complete the supplemental questionnaire carefully and accurately.

If there is a high number of qualified applicants, a comparative screening will be conducted to determine which of the applicants will be selected for invitation to the qualifications appraisal interviews. Upon qualifying, applicants will be notified by email regarding the procedures to schedule a qualifications appraisal interview. Notifications will not be sent until after the closing date for the position.

Applicants must pass the training and experience application screening in order to move to the next step in the examination process.

Step 2:
Qualifications Appraisal Interview (weighted 100%) All applicants must achieve a passing score in the interview process in order to be placed on the eligibility list.

Additional Salary Information New Hires – Initial Salary Placement The District has established criteria in place that recognizes the education and experience new employees bring to their role in supporting students and the services of the District. Upon approval of the Director of Classified Human Resources, a new employee may be provided with advanced step…