Multilingual Learner Specialist – MOA

​DUTIES AND RESPONSITILITIES:

The Multilingual Learner Specialist will support the development and implementation of programs and practices that enhance the educational experiences and outcomes of multilingual learners (MLs) across the state. This role involves collaborating with educators, administrators, and community stakeholders to ensure that MLs receive high-quality education.

In this role, the specialist will serve as the coordinator for English learner (EL) standards to assist and support the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) and school and district staff in developing effective, standards-based practices focusing on English language acquisition and proficiency in language arts, math, science, and social studies.

Program Development and Implementation: Build the capacity of district and school staff to use and apply the World-Class Instructional Design and Assessment (WIDA) English Language Development (ELD) Standards Framework. Use the framework to support the design of standards-based educational experiences that are student-centered, culturally and linguistically sustaining, and responsive to multilingual learners' strengths and needs. Work within and across offices at KDE to ensure compliance with federal and state requirements, policies, and mandates.

Professional Development: Provide training and support to educators on effective instructional strategies for MLs, including culturally responsive teaching practices. Work to ensure MLs have access to rich, standards-aligned, grade-level learning by supporting district and school staff by embedding language development into curriculum, instruction, and classroom assessment.

Stakeholder Engagement: Provide technical assistance to internal and external stakeholders, promoting collaboration among stakeholders, including district and school leadership, content and language teachers, instructional specialists, support staff, students, and families.

Resource Development: Ensure alignment of resources with Assessing Comprehension and Communication in English State-to-State for English Learners (ACCESS), the WIDA annual English language proficiency assessment. Guide and develop state policies, informational documents, and resources that encompass increased access and opportunities for multilingual learners and their families.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education: Master's degree in education, TESOL, Bilingual Education, or a related field.

Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience working with multilingual learners in an educational setting.

KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS:

Understand the language development process and how the WIDA ELD Standards Framework represents the linking of grade-level academic content and language proficiency.

Strong understanding of second language acquisition and bilingual education theories.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Ability to analyze data and use it to inform practice.

Strong organizational and project management skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

Knowledge of federal and state regulations related to multilingual education.

Proficiency in one or more languages other than English is highly desirable.

Experience in providing professional development to educators.

Applicants and employees in this classification may be required to submit to a drug screening test and background check. 

Applicants currently under contract with a local school district are required to provide a written release from their superintendent prior to an offer of employment will be given. 

NOTE: This position is eligible for consideration for a hybrid schedule that allows for a combination of in-office and approved alternative work scheduling. The agency may terminate or modify the telecommuting arrangement at any time.

NOTE: This position will be filled through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). The applicant selected for this position must be an employee of a Kentucky local school district or institution of higher education. 
 
TO APPLY FOR THIS POSITION, please send resume, and letter of interest directly to: Christy Ricketts, Division of Resource Management, 300 Sower Blvd, Frankfort, KY 40601; Phone: 502-564-3716; Email: christy.ricketts@education.ky.gov. Applications are not kept on file and must be resubmitted. 
 
For further information concerning the application process, e-mail Christy Ricketts at: christy.ricketts@education.ky.gov   
 
This position will remain open until filled. 
An Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer