Child Development Specialist - Education

Description The Child Development Specialist plans, develops, and evaluates the Head Start Educational Component across the assigned service area. This position provides leadership and support for education, disabilities, mental health, and transition services while ensuring compliance with Head Start Performance Standards and applicable local, state, and federal requirements.

Collaborate with the Management Team to ensure coordinated, high-quality services for children and families. Reports to the Head Start Director. What You’ll Do

• Coordinate, direct, and ensure implementation of the Education Component of the Head Start program and maintain compliance with Performance Standards and program written plans.
• Act as a resource for teaching and child development practices in early childhood.
• Act as a resource for home-based and childcare partnerships throughout the assigned area.
• Ensure policies, procedures, agreements, and contracts are reviewed and updated annually.
• Establish and actively maintain working relationships with community partners (i.e., ICC, community meetings, contracts) to ensure positive outcomes for children and families.
• Collect required data and report as requested.
• Oversee education, disabilities, mental health, and transition services within the assigned area.
• Coach identified staff using the Practice-Based Coaching Curriculum.
• Coordinate with the Management Team to provide orientation and training for staff.
• Supervise Family Educators and Childcare Partnership Specialists within the designated area as assigned.
• Develop strategies to effectively recruit and support childcare partnerships within the designated area.
• Develop evaluations and professional development plans for designated employees.
• Actively support managers to develop and/or conduct evaluations for other education services staff.
• Ensure designated staff follow through with required certifications and professional development.
• Ensure accuracy of time sheets and leave requests for designated staff.
• Ensure parents receive appropriate support to fully participate in their child's education.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood or related field required.
• Training and experience in areas that include: The theories and principles of child growth and development, early childhood education, and family support.
• General knowledge of Head Start programming and federal/state regulations.
• Requires commuting within ECKAN1'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.