Nature of Work
To assure that children with special needs are identified, referred, evaluated, receive appropriate follow up services, and are appropriately included in all of the day to day activities. To offer support to families and to encourage their involvement in meeting the needs of their children. Must meet requirements per Federal Head Start Performance Standards and any local, state and/or agency policies and procedures.
Education
High School Degree or GED with a minimum of 2 years professional level experience in an early childhood setting that includes services to children with special needs. Preference will be given to applicants with Associates degree in Early Childhood Education.
Essential Functions
Be familiar with and adhere to the Head Start Program Performance Standards, State of Louisiana licensing requirements, the RCCDC written work plan, and agency's policies and procedures
Maintain an open, friendly, professional relationship with all staff and families, to include respect for culture, diversity and ethnicity.
Participate in annual program self-assessment and continuous quality improvement initiatives of the overall program.
Monitor and ensure confidentiality of children records
Position Specific Essential Functions:
Early Intervention & Consulting
1. Assure completion of speech, developmental, and behavioral screenings according to RCCDC procedures.
2. Monitor and observe and interact with children to identify strengths and needs, support individualization and inclusion, support and monitor implementation of specified goals.
3. Participate in the required staffings, parent conferences, and home visits for the purpose of assessment and support.
Family & Community Engagement
1. Communicate with families about referrals for suspected needs and offer support to families in the follow up process.
2. Serve as a liaison between Head Start, Early Head Start and referral agencies to assure coordinated and timely services for children and families.
3. Participate in recruitment efforts/activities for children, including children with special needs.
Planning, Monitoring, & Documentation
1. Review evaluation reports and individualized plans of children with special needs and share relevant information with staff and families.
2. Provide input with providers, families, and staff to develop appropriate intervention strategies and modifications to meet individualized needs of child.
3. Maintain required recordkeeping and reporting systems, including PROMIS data entry.
Additional Job Responsibilities
1. Collaborate with specialists and community providers to assure quality services.
2. Attend meetings, trainings, and professional development activities.
3. Other duties as requested by supervisor.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Knowledge of appropriate intervention techniques to meet the needs of children birth to age 5, including children who may be at risk, or have identified special needs.
Ability to work as a team member collaborating with staff, families, and community resources.
Ability to work independently and maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality.
Strong written and verbal communication skills. Bilingual English/Spanish skills highly desirable.
Intermediate to advanced level computer skills, internet and e-mail.
Sits with children during family style meal times and eats the same "Head Start" lunch as the children, observing child's behavior and abilities and to provide a model for good nutritional habits.
Ability to respond appropriately to an emergency or a crisis situation.
Occasional driving for home visits sometimes in outlying areas.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
Employees within this classification are required to:
Pass a criminal background check.
Pass a physical examination every three years
Complete Tuberculosis (TB) test every three years.
Maintain a current First Aid, CPR, and CPI certification ( training provided )
Maintain a valid driver's license with a driving record in compliance with RCCDC's insurance carrier requirements.
Bend, stoop and kneel and lift up to 50 lbs.
Frequently kneel, stoop, bend, and sit on the floor to attend to children's needs
Perform duties in an active environment with changes in climate and noise level.