Education Program Officer, Early Intervention and Inclusive Practice

The Center for Technology in Education is searching for an Education Program Officer, Early Intervention and Inclusive Practice to lead strategic initiatives supporting the enhancement of early intervention and preschool special education programs across Maryland, including leading the application of research and evaluation findings. This role involves steering statewide adoption of evidence-based practices, overseeing professional development programs, and collaborating closely with state departments and local early intervention programs. This person will ensure the successful integration and sustainability of these practices and evaluate the impact of all educational strategies and interventions.

In addition, this role will work in close collaboration with the Program Administrator to oversee and deliver solutions to ensure the delivery and quality of services within established scope, budget, and timelines for sponsored projects in the field of early intervention or early childhood education. This position will utilize strong project management methodology, practices, and tools.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively with state and local leaders to examine and revise the current professional development program for early intervention and preschool special education providers at all levels, from newly hired staff through local leadership.
• Design and execute professional development to support the proficiency of early interventionists in applying evidence-based practices.
• Collaborate with the Maryland State Department of Education to guide the implementation of training programs, ensuring they are effectively tailored to meet the diverse needs of the professional staff at various career stages.
• Provide expert guidance on the adoption of evidence-based practices such as Routines Based Interview (RBI) and Reflective Coaching, facilitating the elevation of program standards across jurisdictions.
• Conduct policy analysis and engage in advocacy to influence early childhood education reforms and funding allocations.
• Lead research efforts to assess the effectiveness of implemented strategies and inform ongoing improvements.
• Synthesize early intervention and preschool special education research and compose literature reviews.
• Provide insights on practical applications, and best practices, to build capacity for early intervention and preschool special education professionals.
• Coordinate the implementation of project work plans supporting clear objectives that are aligned with the Center for Technology in Education priority goals.
• Collaborate with the communications team to manage marketing and promotion of professional development opportunities.
• Engage with key stakeholders including state leadership, local education agencies, and federal assistance centers to foster collaboration and ensure the initiatives' success.
• Assist in the planning of strategic processes for completing grant activities and work with key personnel to develop dissemination strategies.
• Attend project management planning meetings and provide documentation and data for progress reporting and evaluation.
• Manage project timelines, deliverables, and resources to ensure objectives are met within the stipulated timeframes.
• Prepare comprehensive reports for state and federal stakeholders detailing progress, challenges, and outcomes of the initiatives.
• Direct outreach programs and collaborations that enhance community awareness and engagement in early intervention practices.
• Facilitate workshops, seminars, and conferences to disseminate findings, gather feedback, and refine strategies.

Additional Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Demonstrated project management and research or evaluation experience.
• Ability to effectively communicate (oral and written) and interact with diverse groups of people, including families receiving early intervention and preschool special education services in Maryland and community agencies outside of Part C and Part B 619 who also provide support to these families.
• Ability to read and synthesize a variety of scientific reports and papers and translate them for various audiences. Integrating information from multiple sources.
• Ability to work independently to develop project timelines, milestones, and complete deliverables.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively with colleagues as an effective team member.
• Proficiency with problem-solving, decision-making, and project management.
• Strong organizational, administrative, and teamwork skills.
• Expertise with local, federal, and state early intervention and preschool special education policies.