Early Childhood Regional Access Coach/Specialist for Early Childhood Access for All (Multiple Positions)

The Regional Access Coach/Specialist will work closely with key stakeholders at the Early Learning Division and the Division of Special Education and Intervention Programming at the Tennessee Department of Education (TDOE) and will be an integral partner with the department in their implementation of training and support for preschool students with disabilities across the state. The goal for the Regional Access Coaches is to interpret state directives to increase inclusive opportunities and increase access to developmentally appropriate environments and high-quality instruction with the focus on improving outcomes for preschool students with disabilities. A person in this position has knowledge of instruction and developmentally appropriate practices for students ages 3-5 in least restrictive environments in Tennessee, as well as having a clear understanding of the development of Instructionally Appropriate Individualized Education Programs (IAIEPs). This position will support participating Access for All districts with implementation of training principles through interpreting directives, assessing performance, designing and/or delivering training, direct observation, coaching, and evaluating. The Regional Access Coaches will focus on collaboration at the district level, coaching district leaders on the Access for All scaffolds to impact educators across the state over the duration of this project. The Access for All initiative currently has 17 participating districts, with plans to expand to additional districts in the future. Each selected coach serves 3-6 districts in their assigned region. Frequent travel within districts can be expected.

Early Childhood Regional Access Coaches/Specialists will provide support for selected Early Childhood Access for All districts to provide support for educators and district leaders being trained on developmentally appropriate practices, for students ages 3-5, including access to high-quality inclusive environments, social-emotional supports, and instruction.