Primary Purpose
To support the vision, mission, and strategic priorities of ESC Region 12. The Education Specialist serves as a high-level instructional leader and consultant, driving academic excellence for Emergent Bilingual (EB) students across the region. This role is responsible for delivering research-based professional development, ensuring state and federal compliance, and providing expert technical assistance to Local Education Agencies (LEAs) regarding Title III and Bilingual/ESL programs.
Qualifications
Education/Certification
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Master’s Degree preferred
- Valid Texas teaching certificate
- English as a Second Language or Bilingual Certification
Special Knowledge/Skills
- Deep knowledge of Content-Based Language Instruction (CBLI), English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPS), and various Bilingual/ESL program models (e.g., Dual Language, Transitional)
- Ability to perform advanced TELPAS and PEIMS data analysis to translate complex data into actionable instructional insights and visual reporting tools.
- Exceptional public relations and presentation skills; ability to advocate for EB programs to diverse audiences, including leadership, instructional coaches, and paraprofessionals.
- Ability to speak effectively before groups of participants
- Understanding of TEA Technical Assistance Waivers/Exceptions, LPAC frameworks, and the Bilingual Education Allotment (BEA).
- Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills; proven ability to deliver effective presentations to diverse groups.
- Highly organized self-starter able to coordinate complex projects and manage program logistics through proactive problem-solving.
- Ability to research/interpret complex policies and translate data into actionable insights using advanced software (spreadsheets and word processing).
- A collaborative team player committed to a positive workplace culture and continuous improvement through Quality Management System (QMS) initiatives.
- Dedicated to continuous personal and professional growth, including attending required professional development to remain a subject matter expert in the field.
General Responsibilities
- Lead Bilingual/ESL certification exam preparation and provide integrated training for diverse audiences, including paraprofessionals, instructional coaches, and district leadership.
- Build and maintain the technical infrastructure for a suite of on-demand Canvas courses, including content loading, enrollment monitoring, and system support for specialized tracks like CBLI and ELPS.
- Guide LEAs through state and federal mandates, including LPAC audits, TEA waiver/exception tracking, and the transition to new programmatic auditing systems.
- Develop and foster "cutting-edge" thinking and innovative instructional strategies to ensure regional educators stay at the forefront of modern pedagogy.
- Translate TELPAS and PEIMS data into actionable insights and visual tools to help districts tailor their support for Emergent Bilingual students and ensure accurate funding.
- Create specialized Bilingual Education Allotment support packages and session menus aligned with the Texas Dual Language and ESL Frameworks.
- Design and deliver high-quality professional development utilizing best practices and research-based information for teaching and learning in grades K-12.
- Provide expert, specialized assistance to Local Education Agencies (LEAs) to support the implementation of district, state, and federal initiatives.
- Encourage and lead collaboration between department staff, as well as staff members across all ESC departments, other regional ESCs, and state agencies.
- Build and maintain positive, trusting relationships with customer school districts to ensure the ESC is a preferred partner for educational solutions.
- Communicate and collaborate with regional and statewide partners on various projects to align efforts and advocate for regional needs.
- Implement Quality Management System (QMS) initiatives to evaluate training effectiveness and ensure continuous improvement in service delivery.
- Support internal ESC 12 functions and maintain a commitment to professional growth and subject matter expertise.
Supervisory Responsibilities
No supervisory responsibilities
Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors
Travel
Frequent travel within the region, state, and nation, when appropriate
Tools/Equipment Used
Standard office equipment including personal computer and peripherals
Posture
Prolonged sitting, occasional bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting
Motion
Repetitive hand motions including frequent keyboarding and use of a mouse; occasional reaching
Lifting
Occasional light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds)
Environment
May work prolonged or irregular hours, frequent regional travel, occasional statewide travel, and out-of-state travel
Mental Demands
Manage multiple tasks and work cooperatively with others,
Use technology expected for the position,
Maintain a calm attitude in demanding situations,
Make changes and adapt to various responsibilities on an ongoing basis,
Work with frequent interruptions, tight deadlines, and limited office space.
Benefit Information
- ESC Region 12 provides monthly monetary contributions of up to $575 for employee/family healthcare and supplemental benefits.
- An employee earns state personal, sick, and vacation leave.
- All employees contribute to the Teachers Retirement System (TRS) and Social Security retirement programs.