Head Start Program Disabilities Coordinator

About the position

The Head Start Program Disabilities Coordinator at YWCA South Florida is responsible for overseeing the Disabilities and Mental Health Components according to the Head Start Performance Standards. This full-time, exempt position reports to the Education Director and involves providing training for Head Start personnel, developing program guidelines, and offering educational resources for parents. The role includes establishing and maintaining a communication and reporting system to monitor, evaluate, and improve these components of the Head Start Program.

Responsibilities

• Provides training and technical assistance to Education staff regarding children’s development and special needs.
• Ensures appropriate implementation of strategies and interventions in the classroom for children with suspected or diagnosed disabilities.
• Identifies children who may have a disability and assures appropriate intervention and services.
• Manages, implements, and evaluates comprehensive programs for children with disabilities and their families enrolled in the Head Start Program.
• Develops and administers programming, reporting, and assessment systems to assist Head Start centers in meeting performance standards.
• Manages the Mental Health component in conjunction with the Mental Health Specialist.
• Develops program initiatives and processes in conjunction with Center Services Coordinator, case managers, parents, and other center staff.
• Plans and implements training for parents and others involved in the Head Start Program.
• Evaluates progress to ensure that component goals and objectives are monitored and achieved.
• Identifies and recruits children who may have special needs and ensures they receive necessary services and support.
• Assures that all necessary accommodations and adaptations are made.
• Develops equipment and materials purchasing plan according to program needs.
• Plans awareness activities for children with Education Specialist.
• Coordinates with Family Support Workers for the recruitment of children with disabilities.
• Participates in the development of special environmental and safety procedures.
• Transitions children with disabilities to their next destination, ensuring a smooth process.
• Plans and conducts regular meetings and/or conferences including staff supervision meetings and parent conferences.
• Ensures compliance with Head Start Performance Standards and federal and state laws.
• Maintains strict child and family confidentiality.
• Coordinates services with the family worker on site.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education, Special Education, Childhood Development, or relevant field.
• One to two years of experience in a Head Start setting with disabilities component.
• Demonstrated understanding of Head Start philosophy and principles of inclusion.
• Minimum of one year experience working with infants, toddlers, or preschoolers with disabilities.
• Knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices, diagnostic tests, screening tools, and assessments.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common scientific and technical journals.
• Ability to respond to inquiries or complaints from clients and regulatory agencies.
• Ability to effectively present information.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical operations.
• Ability to solve practical problems and interpret a variety of instructions.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.

Nice-to-haves

• Red Cross First Aid Certificate.

Benefits

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Sick Time
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance