Position Function:
The Early Intervention Teacher is responsible for delivering high-quality early intervention educational services in a child’s natural environment for children birth through the age of 2 years, 11 months. They will operate under guidance for serving infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities under Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), as part of a pilot project at Mississippi State University. This position requires a deep understanding of early child development, special education principles, strong communication skills, and a passion for making a positive impact on the lives of children with developmental delays/disabilities and their families.
Salary Grade: 13
Please see Staff Compensation Structure for salary ranges.
Department Profile:
The T.K. Martin Center provides comprehensive, multi-disciplinary evaluations to remove limitations through the application of assistive technology, allowing individuals to participate in educational, vocational and leisure activities to the fullest degree they choose. The comprehensive nature of the services offered ensures that the correct solutions are achieved efficiently and effectively, with needs being met in a one-stop shop.
The Center staff provide services and outreach for individuals with disabilities of all ages including assistive technology, art, early intervention, psychological, behavioral, and dyslexia services.
The T.K. Martin Center seeks to hire 1-2 individuals to serve as Early Intervention Teacher for the Early Intervention Pilot Project currently extended through June 30, 2024. While employment beyond this date is possible, it is not guaranteed.
Anticipated Appointment Date:
January 1, 2024
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Instructional Planning: Design and implement developmentally appropriate instructional activities to address the unique needs of each child. Facilitate learning by engaging the child at the child’s level while understanding and seeing what interests the child, or utilizing direct teaching techniques, as appropriate. Develop goals and short term objectives for the IFSP and for transition to IDEA Part B services.
2. Family Collaboration: Foster positive relationships and rapport with families, involving them in the planning and implementation on instructional/intervention strategies. Provide support, resources, and guidance to families to enhance their child’s development.
3. Natural Environment Implementation: Deliver early intervention services in the child’s natural environment (home, daycare, etc.), ensuring seamless integration into daily routines and activities.
4. Participate in a interdisciplinary team: Communicate to other team members all relevant information pertaining to the child’s learning environment, family events, and other pertinent information that may affect the child’s learning.
5. Compliance and Data Collection: Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Maintain accurate and up-to-date records, including IFSPs, progress reports, procedural safeguards, and other necessary documentation. Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of each child’s progress and intervention plans.
6. Family Support and Education: Provide guidance, support, and resources to families, empowering them to understand their child's developmental needs, the services available, and how to access community resources.
7. Advocacy: Advocate for the needs and rights of children with developmental delays or disabilities within the community, ensuring access to appropriate services and support systems.
8. Training and Development: Stay updated on best practices, current trends, and research in early intervention services. Participate in professional development opportunities and share knowledge with colleagues and families.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in special education, human development, and family science or child and family science with a concentration in child development
- Licensed by the Mississippi Department of Education with one of the following endorsements: 211 Early intervention/special education birth-kindergarten; 221 or 223 mild/moderate disability, 222 severe disability, 206 emotional disability; 153 Pre-Kinder – Kindergarten.
- Experience working with young children.
- Must possess a driver’s license.
Preferred Qualifications:
• Master's degree in special education, human development, and family science or child and family science with a concentration in child development
• Licensed as a speech pathologist
• One year experience in provision of early intervention instructional services or services under under IDEA Part C, directly working with infant, toddlers, and their families.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations governing early intervention programs.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
• Empathy, patience, and a deep commitment to supporting families and children with developmental needs.
• Working knowledge of child development, disabilities, family systems, and special education methods.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with clients, families, and professionals.
• Familiarity with assistive technology and therapeutic interventions for young children.
• Ability to interact effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to establish community relationships.
• Demonstrated computer literacy skills, using Microsoft Office applications
• Dependable and able to meet timelines in an efficient manner.
• Self-motivated, ability to prioritize tasks and to work independently and as part of a larger interdisciplinary team.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
- Ability to sit most of the time with bending and reaching.
- Ability to stand, walk, and bend often.
- Ability to move from sitting to standing quickly.
- Ability to lift 30 pounds.
Instructions for Applying:
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
Applicants must apply online and attach 1) a cover letter; 2) resume/vita; 3) complete contact information for three professional references 4) a copy of transcripts with SSN redacted (official transcripts are required upon employment).
Restricted Clause:
Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
MSU is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, gender identity, status as a U.S. veteran, and/or any other status protected by applicable law. We always welcome nominations and applications from women, members of any minority group, and others who share our passion for building a diverse community that reflects the diversity in our student population.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
