Family Development Advocate

this position requires a team player to support partner providers, children, and families in delivering high-quality head start services and programs. The ideal candidate will be able to establish trusting relationships with families, develop strategies to achieve family goals, and promote the social, cognitive, and physical development of preschool children. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential for success in this role.

essential duties and responsibilities

• develop and maintain positive relationships with families, providing regular communication and support to promote trust, family well-being, and ongoing learning and development.
• collaborate with families to identify needs, goals, and services, and provide referrals to community resources that support family well-being and children's learning and development.
• implement family engagement strategies that foster parental confidence and skills in promoting children's learning and development, including activities that support parent-child relationships and child development.
• work with program staff to support classroom and center operations, maintain active supervision, and increase knowledge of teaching practices to provide higher levels of support.
• conduct timely checks with families regarding attendance, provide information on the importance of regular attendance, and implement strategies to improve individual attendance.
• act as a referral coordinator, facilitating access to community services and providing ongoing support to assist families in navigating health systems and accessing health insurance.
• facilitate parent classes, coordinate speakers, and lead activities that promote head start's mission and active parent engagement in the classroom or center.
• provide all services and supports as required by the head start program performance standards, including conducting home visits, assessments, and data entry.
• attend iep reviews, apply goals to meet children's needs, and facilitate the iep process in a timely manner.
• prepare and maintain accurate records, maintain confidentiality, and perform data entry into electronic systems and paper files.
• understand and adhere to regulations, policies, and procedures, including head start performance standards, arizona child care licensing, and mandated reporters requirements.
• assist center manager and classroom staff, perform duties as needed, and remain prepared and organized with necessary forms and documentation.
• develop professionally through training and workshops, travel within the service area, and maintain reliable and predictable attendance.
• utilize tact and discretion to maintain confidentiality and a positive image of the organization.

required education and experience

per head start program performance standards, currently:

credential or certification in social work, human services, family services, counseling, or a related field within 18 months of hire.

cda credential or comparable credential, or equivalent coursework as part of an associate’s or bachelor’s degree

other requirements

minimum 21 years of age

valid arizona driver license, mvr report of acceptable driving record, and proof of vehicle liability insurance

current health physical and tb clearance

cpr and 1st aid certification

current az dps fingerprint clearance card/ criminal history affidavit/central registry background check

comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-energy environment

(ability to secure and maintain a driver’s license valid in the state of arizona, or an acceptable alternative means of transportation.may be required to drive an agency vehicle.employees authorized to operate a private vehicle for wacog business are required to carry liability insurance minimums.for…