The Educational Consultant is part of the Department of Special Education at Vanderbilt University and is a key contributor to activities related to coaching teachers, supporting children’s social emotional development (Pyramid Model) birth to 6, and addressing challenging behavior in school districts and other early childhood programs in and around Nashville, as well as in other states, and disseminating the findings to research and practice communities. This position requires at least 10 years of experience in PreK and Kindergarten settings as a teacher and professional development provider. Reporting directly to the Principal Investigator.

 

About the Work Unit:

Ranked as the #1 Special Education Program in the nation by U.S. News & World Report for more than a decade, our department has long been a leader both in research and practice. The mission of the Department of Special Education is to improve the lives of children and youth with disabilities through (a) the preparation of exceptionally competent teachers and researchers, (b) conducting research that informs and improves educational programs and behavioral interventions, and (c) leadership in professional associations and advocacy for persons with disabilities. We are committed to equipping students with diverse backgrounds and experiences to provide exceptional services and supports to people with disabilities and their families.

 

Duties and Responsibilities

An Educational Consultant in the Hemmeter lab supports research and technical assistance across grants and projects that serve the education and development of young children birth to 6. The lab’s research focuses on Coaching educators on developmentally appropriate practices using Practice-Based Coaching Strengthening educators’ implementation of practices to support young children’s social and emotional competence and prevent and address challenging behavior Supporting educators’ implementation of instructional strategies with young children with disabilities Functions could include scheduling, developing, and delivering training; providing direct coaching to educators; providing support to coaches; collecting, managing, and processing data; communication and collaboration with professionals in the field; and developing resources. These functions are executed in a timely, accurate, clear, and collaborative manner. As the lab partners with various stakeholders, it is essential that the Educational Consultant individualizes training, communication, and support for different audiences and purposes. The goal of the Hemmeter lab is to implement and sustain research-based practices that promote positive child outcomes, and that programs, administrators, educators, and families have a positive experience working with our team.

 

Supervisory Relationships:

This position does not have supervisory responsibility; this position reports administratively and functionally to the principal investigator.

 

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in early childhood special education or related field is necessary. At least 10 years of early childhood teaching or coaching experience is required, ideally in settings that include young children with disabilities. In addition, experience developing and delivering training is preferred.