Child Development Specialist (Education/Disabilities)

East Central Kansas Economic Opportunity Corporation; Ottawa (KS); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional education provider in Kansas is seeking a Child Development Specialist to plan, develop, and evaluate Head Start educational components. Responsibilities include coordinating the Disabilities Component, ensuring compliance with regulations, and supporting staff development. Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education or related fields and experience with Head Start programming. The role includes physical activity and requires a valid driver’s license.

Qualifications

• Experience with Head Start programming and federal/state regulations.
• Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds and perform physical tasks.
• Valid driver's license and compliance with insurance standards.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and direct the Disabilities Component of Head Start.
• Support staff with certification and professional development.
• Maintain confidentiality of agency information.

Skills

Written and verbal communication

Use of technology for data management

Knowledge of child growth and development

Coaching and mentoring

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education or Early Childhood

Job description

Position Summary

Responsible for planning, developing and evaluating the ECKAN Head Start Educational/ Disabilities Components within ECKAN Head Start service area. Child Development Specialist is responsible for ensuring compliance of the education, disabilities, mental health, and transition services components of the program throughout the assigned service area. Collaborate with Management Team to ensure an integrated balance of Head Start services. Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations. Reports to the Head Start Director.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Coordinate, direct, and ensure implementation of the Disabilities Component of the Head Start program and maintain compliance with Performance Standards and program written plans.
• Act as a resource for disabilities practice, services, and interventions.
• Actively support managers to develop and/or conduct evaluations for other education staff.
• Ensure accuracy of time sheets and leave requests for designated staff.
• Collect required data and report as requested.
• Oversee education, disabilities, mental health, and transition services within the assigned area.
• Coach identified staff using Practice Based Coaching Curriculum.
• Coordinate with the Management Team to provide orientation and training for staff.
• Ensure designated staff follow through with required certifications and professional development.
• Ensure parents receive appropriate support to fully participate in their child’s education.
• Support staff in effectively utilizing the assessment process.
• Monitor child development records and reports for the assigned area.
• Ensure policy, procedure, agreements, and contracts are reviewed and updated annually.
• Initiate an environment of acceptance that supports & respects gender, culture, language, ethnicity & family composition.
• Establish and actively maintain working relationships with community partners (i.e., ICC, community meetings, MOU’s, contracts) to ensure positive outcomes for children and families.
• Support the recruitment of volunteers and development of “in-kind”.
• Attend staff meetings, workshops, and in-service training to meet professional development goals.
• Help to develop a good working environment, morale, and communications between staff members.
• Support the ECKAN code of ethical conduct.
• Provide support, crisis intervention, and referrals to local resources to meet family needs.
• Maintain confidentiality of all agency information.
• Maintain accurate and up to date records per policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Act as a resource for teaching and child development practices in early childhood.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education, Early Childhood, or a closely related field required.
• General knowledge of Head Start programming and federal/state regulations.
• Requires commuting within ECKAN’s seven-county service area.
• Employment is contingent on successfully passing required background checks and health assessments.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient in using technology to enhance data and information management.
• Must be able to participate in daily kneeling, stooping, bending, and sitting on the floor, and occasionally lifting up to 40 pounds, and be able to sit and or stand for long periods of time.
• Possess a valid driver’s license and comply with ECKAN insurance standards, as applicable.
• Training and experience in areas that include: The theories and principles of child growth and development.