Early Childhood Specialist

The incumbent of this position is responsible for guiding and planning the implementation of a comprehensive child development program that meets the Head Start definition of curriculum in all program options and settings.

SUPERVISION:

Received: Works under the direct supervision of the Early Childhood and Social Emotional Manager and general supervision of the Child Development and Nutrition Services Director

Exercised: As assigned.

RATE: Based on Education and Experience                                 $26.94- $31.98

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Provide leadership and direction in planning for the training, development, and mentorship of all staff in order to meet or exceed requirements, and as a means of ensuring quality experiences for infants/toddlers, preschoolers, and their families.
2. Support the mission and philosophy of the Head Start program. Work in partnership with families without judgment or bias, recognizing and respecting individual differences and backgrounds.
3. Establish and implement procedures for the ongoing monitoring of EHS/HS Education/Disabilities to ensure effective implementation of federal requirements.
4. Participate in ongoing strategic planning process incorporating program data (PIR, monitoring results, outcomes, self-assessment, and budget) to assess program goals and objectives, meet program requirements and promote continuous improvement.
5. Responsible for the annual review and update of assigned content to ensure compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS).
6. Plan and provide opportunities for training and development of all staff to help them acquire or increase the knowledge and skills necessary to fulfill their job responsibilities and implement HSPPS.
7. Assess needs and assist with the ordering of appropriate classroom supplies, equipment, and material, as budget allows.
8. Coordinate hiring of classroom personnel in accordance with governance and management responsibilities.
9. Coordinate the process of assessing children including initial screenings, ongoing developmental and specialized assessments.
10. Recruit children with disabilities through contacts with community agencies that provide services to children with disabilities; support inclusion of children in the classroom.
11. Track the referral process to assure compliance with IDEA.
12. Consult regularly with parents and staff on the progress of disabilities services and of the children who are enrolled
13. Attend and appropriately represent program/agency at local, regional, and national meetings, training, and conferences.
14. Relate professionally and tactfully with all program participants and coworkers; maintain positive personal and communication skills as well as the ability to work as part of a team.
15. Present professional and positive image as a representative of CAPHR.
16. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing, receive and provide feedback, and manage dynamic interchanges in meetings.
17. Attend pertinent budget committee meetings as requested by Director.
18. Coordinate services through area colleges and universities.
19. Work as a liaison to area agencies, and local education agencies; update yearly agreements.
20. Maintain professional boundaries with all current, past, and prospective clients, and maintain the confidentiality of clients and staff, in accordance with CAPHR policy and procedure.
21. Continue to develop grant funding sources and proposals.
22. Abide by all CAPHR safety policies and procedures.

23. Perform other related duties as required.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Ability to relate effectively to parents of Head Start children, staff, and the community.  Ability to work in a team environment that supports quality and integrated services.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

Minimum Bachelor’s Degree (Master’s preferred) in Early Childhood Education with Head Start/Early Head Start experience preferred.  The candidate should have a minimum of three (3) years lead-teaching experience in a child-centered classroom.  S/he should have the ability to understand the needs of individual children with respect to their development and its relationship to learning and socialization.  Supervisory experience is essential.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:

Head Start/Early Head Start experience a plus