Job Description

Under the direct supervision of the Disabilities Manager, assist Developmental Specialists to deliver special needs services at the center for children and families. Serves as the case manager for children needing special services, and as the team lead for children needing mental health services. Works with the Education Specialist, Mental Health Specialist, and Education team to support children with challenging behaviors. Tracks behaviors, gathering data to complete a functional behavior assessment and develop behavior support plans. Under the direction of the Developmental Specialist, ensures IEPs/IFSPs are implemented in the classroom through ongoing observations and individualization process. Works with teaching staff to promote social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. Assist Developmental Specialists to complete and submit referrals to community agencies for needed services.

Key areas of responsibility

1. Assist Developmental Specialist to manage all aspects of the disability’s component area for the center in accordance with the Head Start Act, Head Start Performance Standards, developmentally appropriate practices, and special education best practices.
2. Assist Developmental Specialist to provide disabilities and mental health services and resources to special needs children in the center.
3. Routinely conducts and documents classroom observations of children with special needs and collaborates with teachers to ensure that lesson plan activities are tailored to meet developmentally appropriate IEP/IFSP goals.
4. Assist Developmental Specialist to follow up with all developmental and socio emotional screenings resulting in concerns or monitoring range Work with teachers to ensure developmental re-screenings are conducted for each child in a timely manner.
5. Under the guidance of the Behavioral Specialist, supports teachers with challenging behaviors, understands the function of behavior, and collects ABC data.
6. Ensures that children identified with disabilities, delays, and/or concerns have effective Individual Education Plans/Individual Family Service Plans (IEPs/IFSPs) that include collaboration between parents, school districts, early intervention agencies, and applicable specialists.
7. Maintains complete, accurate, and updated information using the approved child and family information database for children in need of special services. Maintain records of mental health services. Serve as the primary point of contact for special needs and mental health database information.
8. Assists in transitions of children with special needs. Includes transitions between Head Start centers, transitions to and from early intervention programs, transitions to and from school district programs, and transitions between classrooms within the center.
9. Assist Developmental Specialist to attends IEP/IFSP eligibility meetings when Developmental Specialist can’t make it. Attending outside agency evaluations of children upon parent request. Serve as interpreter as required.
10. Assist Developmental Specialist with Home Visits when the caseload surpasses 23 children with special needs. Developmental Home visit requirements are as listed: Meeting with parents conducting home visits for children with special needs. Provide parents with information regarding their legal rights throughout the special education process, obtain their permission for further evaluation or mental health services, give suggestions for home activities, and follow up on recommendations. Maintain confidentiality in matters pertaining to parents and children.
11. Participates in case reviews and collaborates with other staff to develop plans to meet IEP/IFSP goals as assigned or directed by Developmental Specialist.
12. Submits written and/or database reports as required.
13. Stays current with early childhood disabilities in the field of knowledge. Understand and support the implementation of the Parent, Family, and Community Engagement (PFCE) Framework.
14. Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Background:

Two years experience within Head Start programs in Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Child Development, or related field, with emphasis in special education, social work, and/or psychology

Bilingual Proficiency: Being proficient in both English and Spanish is an advantage.

Physical Capabilities: Comfort with extended periods of sitting or standing, the ability to lift to 50 lbs., and a readiness to perform various activities associated with caring for young children, including stooping, bending, and crawling. You may also be visiting families in agricultural settings.

Why You'll Love It Here:

We are passionate about our work and the incredible children and families we have the privilege to support. We have been dedicated to Community and Family Engagement since 1975, have been operating Head Start Programs since 1991, and have experience managing programs in challenging, isolated, and underserved areas. Our curricula and programs are rooted in science, and we are committed to the professional growth of minority communities. Plus, our team includes bilingual and bicultural staff to ensure inclusive and culturally sensitive care.

If you are passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families, we want to hear from you. Apply Today!