Education and Language Advocacy Specialist

Position Title

Education & Language Advocacy Specialist

Director of Audiological Services

Certificated/Exempt .60 FTE (108 days)

The Education & Language Advocacy Specialist supports families, children, and educational teams by promoting accessible communication, language development, and family engagement for Deaf and Hard of Hearing children from birth through age 22. This position works collaboratively with the regional Teacher of the Deaf and multidisciplinary teams to provide ASL access, parent coaching, family support, and culturally responsive services across home, community, and educational settings.

The position will be stationed at the ESD 123 main office and will involve regular travel throughout the ESD 123 region. All travel expenses eligible for reimbursement will be covered in accordance with OFM guidelines and applicable program requirements.

• Partner with the Teacher of the Deaf to support Deaf and Hard of Hearing children and families in both Part C Early Intervention and Part B educational programs.
• Assist in facilitating transitions between early intervention, preschool, and school-age services.
• Participate in IFSP, IEP, and multidisciplinary team meetings as requested.
• Design and implement services outlined in the IFSP utilizing a variety of evidence-based practices including natural learning environments, caregiver coaching, and routines-based practices.
• Fluency in ASL and written English.
• Perform ASL and provide language access for children and families across natural environments, classrooms, and community settings (e.g., Family Nights).
• Coach and support families in developing communication strategies, language-rich interactions, and access to Deaf community resources.
• Collaborate with educators, early intervention providers, audiologists, speech-language pathologists, and related service providers to support individualized student and family goals.
• Provide developmental services to children and families and might supervise, guide, and mentor direct services provided by a Developmental Associate (DA).
• Plan and conduct evaluations and/or assessments using developmentally, culturally, and linguistically appropriate, valid and reliable tools, authentic assessment, and informed clinical opinion to establish eligibility and measure ongoing progress.
• Support culturally and linguistically responsive practices that honor family communication choices and promote language access.
• Provide family education regarding Deaf culture, language development, communication modalities, advocacy, and educational support.
• Assist in development of regional family engagement opportunities, workshops, and community connections.
• Maintain documentation and records in accordance with district, state, and federal requirements.
• Travel throughout the regional service area to provide in-home/school direct support and consultation.
• Follow all applicable Board Policies and Procedures and maintain confidentiality.

• Compile and maintain up-to-date files and data related to evaluations, outcome plans, and intervention progress for children and families.
• Prepare written materials such as procedures, guidelines, and training materials to support the delivery of high-quality early intervention services.
• Collaborate with parents, local school district personnel, and community agencies to enhance service coordination and promote seamless support for children and families.
• Provide direct assistance to school districts (e.g., procedures, Part C services and regulations, transition, child find, models for intervention, screening, and assessments) for the purpose of delivering services which conform to established guidelines.
• Assist other personnel when needed to ensure an efficient and effective team.
• Utilize technology effectively, including proficiency in Google Drive, Outlook, Google Docs, Adobe, PowerPoint, and other relevant tools to enhance communication, documentation, and collaboration.
• Strive to be a part of a healthy work culture.
• Adhere to all Board policies and procedures, maintaining confidentiality and compliance with HIPAA and FERPA regulations.