AmeriCorps Education Support Specialist Program
Members of Episcopal Children’s Services’ AmeriCorps Program provide a commitment of service as Education Support Specialists, assisting teachers directly in Head Start pre-school classrooms. Members primarily will work one-on-one or in small group sessions, focusing on assisting children achieve benchmarks in areas of social-emotional development, language and mathematics.
History and Need
ECS launched its first AmeriCorps program in 2019 to address a growing need to provide additional support for teachers in Head Start classrooms so that young children may be successful in achieving specific school-readiness benchmarks. The need for this program is significant and aligns with our mission to support underserved children in Northeast and Central Florida build a strong foundation for educational success. ECS programs use a “whole child” approach that helps kids grow intellectually, emotionally and socially. Members serving in classrooms help achieve this goal by working with children who may be facing obstacles to success and simply need more individualized support.
Member Benefits
- Living Stipend: Members receive a biweekly living stipend which may vary based on Full Time (1700 hours), Half time (900 hours) or Quarter Time (450 hours).
- Segal Education Award: Members an education award upon successful completion of their service year. Full Time ($6,195.00), Half Time ($3,097.50), or Quarter Time ($1,638.89).
- Additional Benefits for Full Time: Full Time members may opt to receive supplemental health insurance and childcare assistance if they qualify.
- Additional Benefits for All: Professional Development, networking, valuable experience with education and human services. All members will also complete their 45 DCF hour requirement, first-aid and CPR during their service.
ECS AmeriCorps Placement Sites:
Marion County: Ocala (3 sites)
Lake County: Clermont, Eustis, Leesburg, Mt. Dora
For further information:
Jenny O’Donnell, Jennifer.odonnell@ecs4kids.org 904-726-1500 x2128