Program Evaluation Consultant: FYs 2026-2028
Position Overview
The Columbus County Partnership for Children (CCPC) seeks a qualified Program Evaluation Consultant (PEC) to provide independent evaluation, program monitoring, data analysis, compliance review, and technical assistance services for Smart Start-funded programs and initiatives. The Consultant will work closely with the Executive Director, Program Coordinator, funded service providers, and Board committees to monitor program outputs, outcomes, and performance measures; ensure compliance with Smart Start requirements; and support continuous quality improvement.
The Consultant must possess extensive knowledge of North Carolina Smart Start policies, performance measures, reporting requirements, and the Smart Start Contracting and Data Management System (CDMS). Experience utilizing CDMS for annual planning, contract development, performance monitoring, reporting, and outcome measurement is required.
Scope of Services
The Program Evaluation Consultant will provide objective, third-party evaluation services to assess the effectiveness, efficiency, quality, and impact of Smart Start-funded programs and activities. The Consultant will assist CCPC in documenting progress toward Smart Start performance measures, local strategic priorities, and county Early Childhood Indicators.
The Consultant will support the collection, verification, analysis, interpretation, and reporting of performance data and provide recommendations for program improvement and enhanced outcomes for children and families in Columbus County.
Primary Responsibilities
1. Program Performance Monitoring and Evaluation
The Consultant shall:
- Monitor and evaluate program outputs, outcomes, performance measures, and contract deliverables for all funded Smart Start programs and activities.
- Review quarterly reports submitted by direct service providers and internal programs.
- Evaluate progress toward annual Smart Start performance measures and projected outcomes.
- Analyze program data trends and identify opportunities to improve service delivery and program effectiveness.
- Provide recommendations to improve program quality, efficiency, accountability, and impact.
- Assist CCPC in ensuring that funded programs are achieving intended outcomes and complying with Smart Start requirements.
2. Data Collection, Verification, and Reporting
The Consultant shall:
- Develop and maintain quarterly reporting tools and evaluation instruments as needed.
- Establish reporting timelines in coordination with the Program Coordinator.
- Review and validate reported participant counts, outputs, outcomes, and performance measure data.
- Verify the accuracy of reported information through review of supporting documentation and source records.
- Communicate directly with service providers regarding data discrepancies, clarification requests, or corrective actions.
- Prepare comprehensive quarterly evaluation reports that summarize program performance, outcomes, challenges, and recommendations.
- Present findings to the Executive Director, Executive Committee, Board of Directors, and other committees as requested.
3. Smart Start Contracting and Data Management System (CDMS) Oversight
The Consultant shall possess demonstrated experience and proficiency with the Smart Start Contracting and Data Management System (CDMS) and shall provide technical support and guidance related to its use.
Responsibilities include:
- Assisting CCPC staff with annual planning, contract development, and program implementation activities within CDMS.
- Reviewing and monitoring program performance measures and outcome data entered into CDMS.
- Ensuring alignment between quarterly reports, program monitoring documentation, and CDMS reporting requirements.
- Assisting with the development and review of Smart Start activity goals, outputs, outcomes, and performance measures within CDMS.
- Monitoring funded activities to ensure compliance with NCPC and Smart Start requirements.
- Supporting staff and funded partners in understanding and meeting CDMS documentation and reporting requirements.
- Assisting with data quality assurance and validation of information submitted through CDMS.
- Providing recommendations to improve data integrity, reporting accuracy, and outcome measurement.
- Assisting with preparation and submission of annual plans, amendments, and other required documentation through CDMS.
4. Program Monitoring and Compliance
The Consultant shall:
- Assist the Executive Director and Program Coordinator with monitoring funded programs for compliance with Smart Start guidelines, contract requirements, and approved program plans.
- Participate in on-site and virtual monitoring activities, as requested.
- Review program implementation, participant documentation, and performance measures.
- Identify compliance concerns and recommend corrective actions.
- Assist service providers in strengthening program operations, documentation practices, and outcome achievement.
- Provide technical assistance regarding Smart Start standards, monitoring expectations, and reporting requirements.
5. Board and Committee Support
The Consultant shall:
- Meet quarterly with the Executive Committee and other Board committees, as requested.
- Present evaluation findings and provide analysis of program performance, outcomes, and trends.
- Assist Board members in interpreting program data and understanding performance results.
- Recommend program revisions, strategic adjustments, and resource allocation strategies designed to improve outcomes.
- Support Board decision-making through the use of objective program evaluation data.
6. Strategic Planning and Community Impact Assessment
The Consultant shall:
- Assist staff with the development, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of CCPC Strategic Priorities.
- Review annual county-level Early Childhood Indicator and Early Childhood Profile data.
- Analyze community trends and emerging needs affecting children and families.
- Provide recommendations for strategic investments and program priorities.
- Assist with periodic review and revision of the agency Strategic Plan.
- Support data-driven planning efforts that align with Smart Start priorities and local community needs.
7. Annual Planning and Procurement Support
The Consultant shall assist the Executive Director and Program Coordinator with annual planning and procurement activities, including:
- Development of annual program and funding plans.
- Preparation and review of Requests for Proposals (RFPs).
- Participation in bidder conferences and technical assistance meetings.
- Review and evaluation of submitted proposals.
- Assistance with funding recommendations for Board review and approval.
- Support for Smart Start activity planning and contract development within CDMS.
- Assistance with annual budget review and alignment of budgets with approved activities and expected outcomes.
8. NCPC and Smart Start Reporting
The Consultant shall:
- Complete and submit NCPC Counts and other required reports in accordance with Smart Start and NCPC deadlines.
- Ensure consistency between provider reports, performance measures, monitoring records, and CDMS data.
- Assist staff with preparation of reports required by the North Carolina Partnership for Children (NCPC).
- Support CCPC during monitoring visits, audits, reviews, and other accountability activities.
9. Additional Evaluation Services
The Consultant may provide additional services as mutually agreed upon, including:
- Specialized program evaluations.
- Outcome and impact studies.
- Community needs assessments.
- Board and staff training related to evaluation, performance management, and CDMS use.
- Grant evaluation and reporting support.
- Other evaluation and continuous quality improvement projects that advance CCPC's mission and strategic goals.
Required Qualifications
The Program Evaluation Consultant must possess:
- Bachelor's degree in program evaluation, public administration, education, social sciences, statistics, research, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
- Demonstrated experience in program evaluation, outcome measurement, performance management, and data analysis.
- Experience working with early childhood, family support, health, education, or community-based programs.
- Strong knowledge of the North Carolina Smart Start network, funding structure, performance measures, and reporting requirements.
- Demonstrated experience using the Smart Start Contracting and Data Management System (CDMS), including annual planning, contracting, performance monitoring, reporting, and data management functions.
- Experience reviewing and validating program performance and outcome data.
- Strong analytical, written communication, and presentation skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with staff, service providers, Board members, and community stakeholders.
Deliverables
At a minimum, the Consultant shall provide:
- Quarterly program performance and evaluation reports.
- Quarterly monitoring and compliance review reports.
- Program outcome and output analyses.
- Data verification and quality assurance findings.
- NCPC Counts submissions and reporting support.
- CDMS performance monitoring and technical assistance.
- Strategic planning and community indicator analyses.
- Annual planning support, including CDMS-related documentation and reporting.
- Recommendations for continuous quality improvement and enhanced program outcomes.
The Program Evaluation Consultant will serve as a key resource in ensuring that Columbus County Partnership for Children maintains a data-driven, outcome-focused system that promotes accountability, Smart Start compliance, effective use of CDMS, and measurable improvements for young children and families in Columbus County.
Please include evidence of your:
At a minimum, the Consultant shall provide:
- Qualifications, education, and experience in this area;
- Demonstrated capacity to perform the work
- Annual budgets for July 1, 2026 - June 30, 2027 and July 1, 2027 - June 30, 2028. Budget will be reviewed following year end and prior to entering year two.
* Bidder's Conference will be held Monday, July 20 at 3pm
*Application deadline is Friday, July 24 at noon
Applications may be submitted virtually by forwarding to selena.rowell@columbussmartstart.org. If you have questions or require technical support, call 910-499-4548.
Position Vacancies - July 2026
Program Support Specialist – Outreach
Part-Time | Up to 25 hours/week | Whiteville, NC
The Columbus County Partnership for Children is looking for an energetic, community-minded Program Support Specialist to help connect families, child care providers, and local organizations with resources that give young children the best possible start in life. We offer flexible work schedules.
What You'll Do
• Build relationships with community organizations serving children birth to 5 and their families, including the Hispanic population
• Create and translate outreach materials such as newsletters, flyers, brochures, press releases, PSAs, and social media content into Spanish
• Manage the Partnership's website and social media presence, plan community event logistics, and represent the Partnership at outreach events
• Serve as liaison between the Partnership, child care providers, human services agencies, and the community; help recruit program participants
• Track event contributions, prepare monthly/quarterly reports, and assist with fundraising coordination
• Participate in Smart Start trainings and other duties as assigned
What You Bring
• Outstanding interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills
• Strong computer/design skills (flyers, brochures, newsletters) and website management experience
• Ability to manage multiple projects and a flexible schedule, including some evenings/weekends
• Associate's degree in marketing, communications, or related field (Bachelor's preferred), plus experience writing for social media/news outlets
• Knowledge of Smart Start programs a plus; equivalent combination of education and experience considered
How to Apply
To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter to Selena.rowell@columbussmartstart.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
The Columbus County Partnership for Children is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Administrative Assistant
Full-Time | 37.5 hours/week | Whiteville, NC
The Columbus County Partnership for Children is seeking an organized, detail-oriented Administrative Assistant to keep our office running smoothly. Reporting to the Executive Director, you'll manage day-to-day office operations, provide executive support, and assist with basic accounting; this is a great fit for someone who thrives on variety and enjoys being the person who keeps things on track. We offer flexible work schedules.
What You'll Do
• Manage front-office operations: phones, visitors, supplies, filing systems, equipment/service contracts, and daily data backups
• Oversee timecards and paid leave tracking, the company car, credit card sign-out, and the fixed assets list
• Support the Executive Director and Board with scheduling, correspondence, meeting logistics, board minutes, and tracking key deadlines and legal renewals
• Provide accounting support: process POs, check requests, and credit card orders; code transactions; manage DocuSign, financial filing, and audit prep
• Coordinate logistics for organizational events (Provider Appreciation, Week of the Young Child, fundraisers, etc.)
• Represent the Partnership professionally in the community; attend at least three evening/weekend events annually
What You Bring
• Strong organizational and decision-making skills; able to manage multiple priorities under pressure with minimal direction
• Excellent customer service, interpersonal, and written/verbal communication skills; high attention to detail and confidentiality
• Advanced computer proficiency (database, word processing, spreadsheet, and desktop publishing)
• Two-year degree in office management, or a high school diploma with equivalent experience; at least 1 year of bookkeeping and 2 years of administrative experience
• Notary Public certification (or ability to obtain within 4 months); valid driver's license, insurance, and regular access to a vehicle
How to Apply
To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter to Selena.rowell@columbussmartstart.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
The Columbus County Partnership for Children is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Program Support Specialist (Part-Time)
Hours: Part-Time (10–15 hours per week)
Position Summary
The Program Support Specialist provides administrative, logistical, and programmatic support across multiple initiatives of the Columbus County Partnership for Children. This position plays a key role in supporting programs focused on literacy, community outreach, and family engagement. The ideal candidate is organized, adaptable, and passionate about serving children and families.
What You’ll Do
- Assist with planning, coordinating, and implementing programs and events related to:
- Early childhood literacy
- Community outreach initiatives
- Family engagement and leadership activities
- Provide administrative support: scheduling, data entry, filing, maintaining program records.
- Support communication efforts, outreach to families, community partners, and stakeholders.
- Help prepare materials for meetings, workshops, and community events.
- Track participation and assist with basic reporting requirements.
- Represent the Partnership at community events, as needed.
- Maintain a professional, positive, and collaborative working relationship with staff, families, and community partners.
What You’ll Bring
- High school diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor’s degree in education, social services, or a related field preferred.
- Experience in administrative support, community programs, or early childhood initiatives
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
- Proficiency in basic computer applications (e.g., Microsoft Office, email).
- Ability to work across program areas.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter to Selena.rowell@columbussmartstart.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
The Columbus County Partnership for Children is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Position Vacancies - April 2025
COLUMBUS COUNTY PARTNERSHIP FOR CHILDREN seeks a coordinator for the Smart Start Early Learning and Family Resource Center (ELF). This Full- time (30 hours/week) position supports the education of young children in Columbus County.
Submit resumes and cover letters to Selena.rowell@columbussmartstart.orgon or before Monday, April 28 at noon.
For more information call Dr. Selena Rowell at 910-499-4548. Send resume and cover letter to selena.rowell@columbussmartstart.org. APPLICATIONS OPEN UNTIL FILLED.
ELF Activity Coordinator
Brief Program Description
The Smart Start Early Learning Facility (ELF) is an integral part of the Columbus County Partnership for Children’s service delivery system. Early educators at child care facilities, head start programs and North Carolina Pre-K sites may utilize ELF resources to supplement their curricula and parents may utilize the Facility to enhance their educational efforts with children ages birth to five.
Description of Position of ELF Activity Coordinator
The ELF Activity Coordinator will be responsible for the day to day operation of the ELF as well as participating in additional activities that facilitate the accomplishment of the Smart Start mission and goals. The following are requirements of the position.
Management Skills - Environment
The ELF Activity Coordinator:
· Organizes printed and non-printed materials, videos, equipment, and facility for effective and efficient utilization and circulation.
· Ensures that the facility is attractive at all times.
· Ensures that all materials and equipment are in good repair and ready to use.
· Keeps the collection current by recommending quality print and non-print materials and equipment for purchase.
· Ensures that the facility is easily accessible and is conducive to learning and facilitation of the early learning process.
· Maintains the catalog of resources.
· Effectively utilizes clerical, volunteer, student and/or other personnel to provide quality library service to users.
· Maintains appropriate records of resources as they are checked out and returned
· Processes materials simply and efficiently.
Assessment of Program
The ELF Activity Coordinator:
· Evaluates and recommends materials needed to meet the specified needs of early educators, children and parents who will be using the ELF.
· Determines the needs of patrons as a basis for the selection of new materials and equipment.
· Does a periodic inventory of all ELF resources.
· Recommends the withdrawal of outdated and worn out materials.
Interpersonal Relationships
The ELF Activity Coordinator:
· Interacts positively with other agency staff and all patrons of the Early Learning Facility
· Coordinates and cooperates with other partners of the agency and with early education facilities and parents
· Helps staff make full use of the services and resources of the ELF.
· Maintains an appearance appropriate for professional assignment.
Professional Responsibilities
The ELF Activity Coordinator:
· Promotes the usage of the ELF, its programs and services.
· Develops a collection that supports the early education goal of the Partnership and Smart Start.
· Organizes, checking, processing, and maintaining of ELF materials.
· Serves as a partner with parents to help encourage and motivate their children to read through a variety of methods.
Technology Leadership
The ELF Activity Coordinator:
· Assists patrons of the ELF with technology.
· Maintains a working knowledge of software applications
· Provides basic instruction to patrons for equipment use.
· Assists patrons with computer and/or AV equipment problems.
Desired Qualifications
· Graduate of or currently enrolled in an Early Childhood Education curriculum or related curriculum.
· Experience working with children ages birth to five
· Experience with a variety of technology/equipment
· Good organizational skills
· Excellent communication skills
· Desire to work with young children and their parents/caregivers
· Good clerical skills
· Willingness to work flexible schedule which may include some weekends
· Willingness to perform other duties as assigned.
Supervision
· The ELF activity coordinator reports directly to the Executive Director.
Columbus County Partnership for Children makes recruitment, employment, promotional and all other Human Resource decisions without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.
Position Vacancies - January 2025
COLUMBUS COUNTY PARTNERSHIP FOR CHILDREN seeks applicants for full-time position Community Outreach Program Support Specialist.
Successful candidates must possess skills which will help to promote community awareness of Columbus County Partnership for Children programs and services and help cultivate broad-based collaborative efforts among service agencies, individuals, families, child care providers and community groups in order to increase participation in related evidence-based activities.
General qualifications include excellent organizational, clerical and oral/written communication skills; knowledge of Smart Start programs and services; proven social media and marketing experience; excellent rapport with community members; knowledge of trauma and resilience.
For more information call Dr. Selena Rowell at 910-499-4548. Send resume and cover letter to selena.rowell@columbussmartstart.org. APPLICATIONS OPEN UNTIL FILLED.
Program Support Specialist – Outreach
CLASSIFICATION: Full-Time (30 hours/week)
WORK LOCATION: 109 W. Main St., Whiteville, NC
PURPOSE: The ultimate goal of the Program Support Specialist is to maximize positive outcomes for young children through evidence based and age appropriate activities.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Outstanding interpersonal skills
- Superior computer skills including designing flyers, brochures, newsletters, etc.
- Ability to manage multiple projects
- Website development and Management
- Willingness to work flexible schedule which may include some evenings and weekends
- Exceptional oral and written communication skills
Desired Education and Experience
- Minimum of Associate’s degree in marketing, public relations, communications or related field (Bachelor's degree preferred)
- Proven skills writing content for social media, news outlets and Public Service Announcements
- Experience using successful marketing strategies including social media marketing platforms
- Knowledge of Smart Start programs and services
- An acceptable combination of education and experience relevant to the job requirements
GENERAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The Program Support Specialist will participate in outreach activities for the agency; promote community awareness of Columbus County Partnership for Children programs and services; and help cultivate broad based collaborative efforts among service agencies, individuals, families, child care providers and community groups designed to increase participation in related evidence-based activities.
The Program Support Specialist will work with the family engagement and other Partnership programs to recruit program participants and perform other related functions as necessary.
SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Build and strengthen relationships with community organizations serving children age birth to 5 and their families.
- Produce and edit Partnership newsletters, flyers and other print and electronic communications.
- Plan and provide logistical organization of the Partnership’s participation in community festivals and events.
- Develop outreach materials for the Partnership, i.e. brochures, newspaper inserts, press releases, public service announcements, presentations, videos, and other media messages.
- Manage content on website and social media platforms.
- Serve as a liaison between the Columbus County Partnership for Children, Child Care Providers, Human Services Agencies, and the Community at large.
- Increase community awareness and support of Smart Start.
- Participate in all outreach activities of the Columbus County Partnership for Children.
- Represent the Partnership at community events
- Track and monitor special events and in-kind and cash contributions from events
- Prepare monthly/quarterly reports, as required
- Assist with coordination of fundraising activities.
- Participate in job appropriate Smart Start trainings, meetings and professional development activities.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.
For more information call Dr. Selena Rowell at 910-499-4548. Send resume and cover letter to selena.rowell@columbussmartstart.org. OPEN UNTIL FILLED
Columbus County Partnership for Children makes recruitment, employment, promotional and all other Human Resource decisions without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.