Early Head Start Specialist

JOB SUMMARY The Early Head Start Specialist will work closely with the Head Start Director, Head Start Center Directors, and Early Head Start staff to facilitate the implementation of all Early Head Start content areas and provide support for the day-to-day operations of the Early Head Start program.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Assist with training Early Head Start staff in formal and informal settings.

Ensures appropriate staffing in classrooms.

Assist in all Early Head Start content areas to facilitate and ensure a high-quality program.

Monitor Early Head Start program needs and requisition of Early Head Start supplies, and work with the EHS management team and Family Advocates to manage resources in this area.

Review Early Head Start family records for accuracy and appropriateness.

Provide input to the Head Start Director regarding classroom functioning/management needs.

Attend and participate in pre-service, in-service, and out-of-agency training as required.

Work closely with the MH/Disabilities Specialist regarding children with special needs, IFSP’s, and classroom implementation and documentation.

Work closely with the Health Education Specialist and Head Start Director to ensure Federal and State regulations and performance standards are met.

Monitor child health records for program compliance and needed follow-up to assist the Health Education Specialist.

Data entry into the computer concerning Early Head Start families/children, particularly for home-based families in areas where the Family Advocate has a large caseload. This includes but is not limited to applications, memos, employee data, data for all content areas, and information related to the performance standards.

Participates in training and enrollment procedures for Early Head Start.

Maintains required files as designated by the Head Start Director.

Prepares correspondence and assigns statistical data reports for the Head Start Director.

Receives end-of-month data from centers and processes.

Develop and maintain systems for monitoring relevant aspects of the EHS program to assure quality.

Maintains appropriate storage of documents according to applicable guidelines.

Perform all other duties as assigned.

FBI/OSBI background check required.

WORKING CONDITIONS The environment is varied including the Head Start Support office, Head Start Centers, and various Community Resources. Must be mobile and agile to perform required tasks such as lifting up to forty-five (45) pounds, reaching above the head and below the knee, or positioning the body as to be on the child’s level and floor level. Must be able to bend, stop, kneel, crouch, and able to run or walk hurriedly for a child’s safety.

QUALIFICATIONS

REQUIRED:

Experience working with an EHS program, in making decisions regarding service delivery, and directing staff is preferred.

Strong analytical skills and good judgment are required.

Prefer a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education. A bachelor’s degree in Child Development or Early Head Start experience will be considered.

Experience in working with children and parents is strongly recommended; current insurance verification in the employee’s name, reliable transportation, and a current Oklahoma driver’s license is required.

Must maintain health status, which includes but is not limited to presenting self for work physical, maintaining health status, and following health and safety protocols, policies, or requirements as directed by ACF/OHS, HSPS, and/or company policy, etc.