Disability Specialist

JOB TITLE: Disabilities Specialist (0-5) DEPT: Early Learning Division

REPORTS TO: Disabilities Manager FLSA: Non-Exempt

JOB SUMMARY: Provide direct service to children and families. Assist classroom staff with the day-to-day management of children in need of additional classroom support in the area of disabilities.

CHILDREN SUPERVISION RESPONSIBILITY: Responsible for child supervision and for keeping children safe.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Provide services for children suspected or diagnosed with disabilities or with behavioral challenges.
• Respond to in-house referrals for children suspected of having risk factors or a diagnosed disability.
• Assist with the recruitment of children who are diagnosed with or at risk for disabilities.
• Ensure timely referrals to outside agencies for multidisciplinary evaluations for children with risk factors or suspected disabilities.
• Participate in collaboration meetings concerning assigned children, including but not limited to Child Placement Team meetings, case conferences, PPT, IEP/IFSP meetings, transition meetings, and consultation with service providers.
• Assist teaching staff with serving the needs of at-risk or disabled children in the classroom by providing in-person support, training, and technical assistance.
• Facilitate or provide training for parents and staff on topics related to disabilities. Provide support and advocacy services for parents.
• Provide ongoing monitoring of services for assigned children.
• Willingness to enhance job knowledge through training and education as required or necessary.
• Ensure compliance and implementation of IEP services.
• Ensure and monitor compliance with Head Start Performance Standards.
• Performs other work-related duties as assigned.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND SKILLS REQUIRED

• Bachelor’s degree in Child Development, Special Education, Psychology, or related field plus three years of experience working with diagnosed children in an early childhood setting.
• Special Education experience required.
• Demonstrated ability to work successfully with young children (0-5) with disabilities.
• Experience and knowledge of community-based disability services.
• Knowledge and experience in data collection and information processes and systems, along with knowledge of childcare regulations, and policy and procedure compliance.
• Ability to handle highly stressful and sensitive situations professionally.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong knowledge of appropriate early childhood practices in early childhood settings.
• Ability to interface with parents, program staff, community partners, and children.
• Must have excellent computer skills and knowledge of various processes, including database management, spreadsheet, word processing, internet, and email.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

HOURS/DAY

0-1 1-2 2-4 4-7

Walking X

Standing X

Sitting X

Reaching X

Driving X

Twisting X

Squatting X

Lifting X

Bending X

Gripping X

Keyboard use X