Jobs/Roles in the ECE Community: National/Federal Level

These are some of the National or Federal organizations that are valuable resources for the ECE field.  They offer a wealth of information and could make a great addition to my community of practice.

NAEYC – The National Association for the Education of Young Children serves and acts on behalf of the needs, rights, and well-being of all young children with their primary focus on the provision of educational development services and resources (NAEYC Bylaws, Article 1, section 1.1).  A current job opening with this organization is that of Executive Assistant to the Executive Director.  This position is located at their headquarters in Washington, D.C. Qualifications include strong organizational skills, strong interpersonal skills, and must be highly resourceful.  Also, candidate should have 5-10 years of experience supporting executives.

http://www.naeyc.org/content/about-naeyc

NIEER- The National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) conducts and communicates research to support high-quality, effective early childhood education for all young children. It is currently seeking Data Collectors.  This position requires a minimum of a BA with a focus on child development, early childhood, or related field.  Candidate must also be knowledgeable about developmentally appropriate practice and have an excellent academic record.

http://nieer.org/

NPDCI – The National Professional Development Center for Inclusion works to ensure that our teachers are prepared to educate and care for young children with disabilities in inclusive classrooms.  They have a Community of Practice forum where people can share their challenges and contribute ideas. They are funded by the Office of Special Education.

The Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) is dedicated to improving results for infants, toddlers, children and youth with disabilities ages birth through 21 by providing leadership and financial support to assist states and local districts. OSEP administers the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

Available jobs with these organizations include educational program specialist and educational research analyst.  Both require a doctorate degree which may be an incentive for ongoing continuing education. 

http://npdci.fpg.unc.edu/

http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/osep/mission.html

 

 

A message to everyone about kids with special needs

Exploring Roles in the ECE Community: Local and State Levels

There are many local and state organizations or communities or practice in Pennsylvania that have similar missions to the early childhood field. I explored a few that I feel closely relate to my experience and educational background.

The local community college, Butler Community College, known as BC3, is located right across the street from where I live. 

Mission Statement

BC3 is dedicated to providing affordable and accessible education, training and enrichment opportunities responsive to the needs of the communities we serve. The College is committed to fostering a supportive, student-centered environment that values integrity, diversity and excellence.

Although there are currently no employement opportunities as an adjunct in the ECE department, this is something I was looking into in addition to my current job as a director of an EC center.  Once my Master’s in Early Childhood Studies is complete, I would have the education and experience to apply for this position should it become available. More information can be found at:  http://www.bc3.edu/

 

WESLEY SPECTRUM

   SERVICES

Wesley Spectrum Services offers therapeutic support staff to work with children on the autism spectrum in their homes and schools.  You need only have a Bachelor Degree; however, this can be a rewarding job opportunity.  Working one-on-one with a child and watching them grow is a benefit.  Here, you will surely see the difference you can make!

Mission Statement:

 Our mission is to provide transformational support for children and families as they strive to become more independent, responsible and caring members of the community - See more at: http://www.wesleyspectrum.org/why-choose-us/what-guides-us/our-mission/#sthash.blHlPRjM.dpuf

More information on this organization can be found at: http://www.wesleyspectrum.org/

 

Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL)

The office of Child Development and Early Learning offers professional development trainings for early childhood professionals and promotes early childhood education and the importance of lifelong learning.  OCDEL is part of the system that provides services to children and families, and contributes to continuous quality improvement opportunities for early learning programs.

MISSION:

The Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) is focused on creating opportunities for the Commonwealth's youngest children to develop and learn to their fullest potential

More information can be found at:

http://www.pakeys.org/pages/get.aspx?page=EarlyLearning