Director, Family Support Services

Salary Range: $95,798 - $154,319 

*State Salary Guidelines apply for current State employees.

 

STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS

200 West Baltimore Street

Baltimore, MD 21201

Through the design and delivery of a robust professional development plan, the Director will equip local education agencies (LEAs) and private providers with the tools and knowledge to excel in their roles. By offering training sessions, workshops, and conferences, the Director fosters a culture of collaboration and ongoing learning. They also establish evaluation systems to measure the effectiveness of our programs and instructional strategies, allowing us to make data-driven decisions and drive continuous improvement. Through stakeholder engagement, the Director builds partnerships with families, community organizations, and policymakers, further strengthening the impact of our family support initiatives.

The Director will support local education agencies (LEAs) and private providers in operationalizing and deploying comprehensive policies and practices that provide high-quality instruction, support, and services to families, especially for those who have been historically underserved and in support of the MSDE’s implementation of the multiyear strategic plan and the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future.  

• Provides guidance, support, and professional development opportunities to enhance family support staff effectiveness and performance.
• Coordinates and collaborates with the Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs to ensure effective implementation of the Child and Adult Care Food Program.
• Coordinates and collaborates with the staff throughout MSDE to support LEAs and private providers to effectively support families with young children who are early multilingual learners.
• Coordinates and collaborates with the MSDE Program Staff throughout multiple areas to ensure effective alignment in support for programs and services that help families and children experiencing homelessness, ensure clear longitudinal alignment with as it relates to programs and services for families and children, and support families in accessing early intervention services and early childhood special education programs for their children. 
• Identifies and secure other federal funding opportunities to support implementation of programs and services to support families with infants, toddlers, and young children.
• Leads the strategic planning, development, and implementation of innovative family support programs and services to meet the diverse needs of families with young children.
• Establishes and maintains strong partnerships with community organizations, Child Care Resource Centers, LEAs, early care and education programs, including Pre-K programs, and other stakeholders to create a network of resources and referrals for families.
• Delivers training sessions, workshops, and conferences on evidence-based family engagement, dual-generation practices, and emerging trends in early childhood education.
• Establishes systems and processes to evaluate the effectiveness of programs and services.
• Ensures compliance with relevant regulations, policies, and grant requirements. Prepare regular reports on program performance and outcomes for internal and external stakeholders.
• Builds and maintains effective relationships with families, community organizations, and partner agencies to support family engagement and early learning.

EXPERIENCE:  Six (6) years of professional administrative experience in management, administration and/or supervision of Child Care - Early Learning Programs, coordinating or administering education-family programs or services, early intervention, preschool special education, or related field is preferred. Experience providing child welfare or adult services to vulnerable children, individuals or families is desirable.

NOTE:  Possession of a Master’s Degree may be substituted for two years of the required experience.

• Knowledge of State and federal statutes and regulations governing and supporting programs and services for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and students who are economically disadvantaged with disabilities and their families.
• Knowledge of Early Learning and Child Care programs including Judy Centers, Patty Centers, Home Visiting programs, and issues governing education programs for Early Learning.
• Knowledge of current research and evidence-based practices related to improving outcomes for young children and their families. 
• Knowledge of grant management.
• Skill in supervising staff and managing multiple administrative activities including oversight and evaluation of staff.
• Skill interpreting data for reporting program performance and accountability.
• Skill in managing multiple tasks, identifying potential issues, and recommending solutions. 
•  Ability to interpret and apply complex laws and regulations governing State and federal programs and exercise good judgment and discretion in making decisions.
•  Ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships and partnerships.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing through the presentation of concise yet comprehensive technical assistance, analyses and reports.

If you are unable to apply online, paper applications can be obtained from the link below and be faxed to 410-333-8950 or mailed to MSDE Office of Human Resources, 200 W. Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201. If there is a supplemental questionnaire, this must be completed and sent in with your paper application. Postmarks will not be accepted.

Inquiries can be made to 410-767-0019, TDD 410-333-3045. Appropriate accommodations can be made for individuals with disabilities. If you have difficulty with your user account or have general questions about this online application system, please contact the MD Department of Budget and Management, Recruitment and Examination Division at 410-767-4850. TTY Users: Call via Maryland Relay. 

Proof of eligibility to work is required in compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act. Any misrepresentation of academic or experience requirements for this position may result in non-selection or termination of employment.

 All application materials must be received in our office by the Closing Date. 

Appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available upon request.