Job Summary
Manages, organizes, and staffs the Disability Services Department of the Head Start and Early Head Start Programs. The Disability Services Department works to ensure that enrolled children with disabilities, including those who are eligible for services under the Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and their families receive all applicable program services delivered in the least restrictive possible environment. Oversees the referral process and tracks the implementation of early intervention services including Individualized Education Plans and behavior plans; ensuring that enrolled children with disabilities, under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) fully participate in program activities. Develops agreements with local and intermediate school districts regarding the referral, evaluation, and provision of services of children enrolled through Head Start. Liaises between CACS, Inc. and Local Education Agencies, Intermediate School District, and community organizations. Promotes the capacity of staff and parents to advocate for and support the full and effective participation of all children with disabilities through training, support, and technical assistance.
Qualifications:
Education:
Bachelor's Degree in a Human Services or Education Field such as Child Development, Special Education, Mental Health, Early Childhood Education, Social Work, or related degree. Special Education degree and/or experience preferred.
Experience:
Minimum of 2 years' experience in managing others and 2 years' experience providing early childhood services
Position Duties/Responsibilities
Provides direct supervision and leadership to the Disability Services Department creating and supporting team systems, tools, and processes
Coordinates intervention services provided to Head Start and Early Head Start enrolled children
Initiates and monitors referrals for children in need of special education and early intervention evaluation
Monitors that both internal and external referrals receive responses and are addressed in a timely manner
Collects and analyzes data to ensure systems and procedures are effective and efficient
Works collaboratively with the Health Services Manager and Program Manager to develop a system to integrate screening data to identify enrolled children for whom individualized planning and/or further assessment is needed
Advocates for children, parents, and the program in obtaining appropriate services for identified children and parents
Assists with parent involvement efforts and activities and encourages family participation in the program
Assures that minimally 10% of children enrolled in Head Start/Early Head Start are eligible for special education services or early intervention services with IFSP or IEP
Establishes and maintains collaborative relationships and formal agreements with community agencies and LEA/ISD to provide services to identified Head Start children and parents
Assures that the referrals to school districts include input from parents and involve Head Start Health, Mental Health, Education, PFCE, and Transportation (when appropriate)
Ensures that IDEA and Michigan Special Education laws are being followed and that children eligible for services receive all applicable program services delivered in the least restrictive possible environment and that they fully participate in all program activities
Monitors the department processes and provides data to Head Start administrative team/community partners and/or governing body when requested. Provides reports to the governing body monthly or upon request.
Develops, facilitates and/or sources training for staff and parents to meet individual children's and program's needs
Coordinates with local colleges and universities to offer practicum experiences for students interested in pursuing careers in supporting young children
Develops and monitors applicable policies and procedures that allows for effective and efficient systems
Duties/Responsibilities of all Head Start Staff
Follow all Head Start Performance Standards, Michigan Child Care Licensing Regulations, and all other federal, state, and local regulations
Adhere to CACS Personnel Policies and Procedures
Communicate clearly and accurately when writing and speaking. Maintain professional confidentiality.
Share information with the administrative team, supervisor, and/or support staff regarding areas of success and/or concern.
Attend all required meetings, conferences, training, etc.
Participate in Program Quality Assurance and Self-Assessment efforts
Work openly and cooperatively in a team effort approach. Work at any site with any staff. Contribute ideas and efforts towards common goals. Help build and maintain positive attitude, trust, and team spirit.
Personal appearance must be neat and appropriate.
Ensure children are actively supervised and engaged at all times including in the classroom, during transitions, on the playground, on the bus or any other agency provided transportation and any other time during the school day, conducting name to face checks accurately, counting the children in and out, adhering to zoning and risk assessment, and following all other active supervision procedures and child required ratios.
Physical Requirements
Properly stoop, bend, lift, climb stairs, and expend moderate physical exertion.
Always interact with children in an appropriate and safe manner.
Follow universal safety precautions.
The above describes the general nature and level of work performed by a person in this position. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all duties that may be performed by such person. Other duties may be assigned.
Must satisfactorily pass federal criminal history check with fingerprinting, physical exam and TB assessment, and drug screen at the time of hire and periodically thereafter pursuant to federal and state laws, Head Start Performance Standards, and Agency Policy and Procedures.
Capital Area Community Services, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are a drug free workplace (including marijuana), with pre-employment drug screening required. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation
