Disability Specialist

Alliance for Community Empowerment Inc•Bridgeport, CT

17h•$22 - $27

About The Position

The Disabilities Specialist provides direct services to children and families and assists classroom staff with the day-to-day management of children needing additional support related to disabilities. The role supports compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards, the Head Start Act, IEPs, IFSPs, and other applicable regulations while promoting positive outcomes for children and families. The position is responsible for child supervision and safety.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Child Development, Special Education, Psychology, or a related field.
At least three years of experience working with children diagnosed with disabilities in an early childhood setting.
Special Education experience.
Demonstrated ability to work successfully with children from birth to age five who have disabilities and developmental challenges.
Experience and knowledge of community-based disability services.
Knowledge and experience with data collection systems, information processes, childcare regulations, policies, and compliance requirements.
Ability to manage highly sensitive and stressful situations professionally.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Strong knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices in early childhood settings.
Ability to work effectively with families, staff, community partners, and children.
Strong computer skills, including database management, spreadsheets, word processing, internet applications, and email.
Ability to lift a child weighing an average of 50 pounds, if necessary.

Responsibilities

Provide direct services to children suspected of having disabilities, children with diagnosed disabilities, and children with behavioral challenges.
Respond to in-house referrals for children identified with risk factors or suspected disabilities.
Assist with recruitment efforts for children diagnosed with or at risk for disabilities.
Ensure timely referrals to outside agencies for multidisciplinary evaluations of children with developmental concerns, risk factors, or suspected disabilities.
Participate in collaboration meetings concerning assigned children, including Child Placement Team meetings, case conferences, PPT meetings, IEP/IFSP meetings, transition meetings, and consultations with service providers.
Support teaching staff in meeting the needs of at-risk and disabled children through classroom support, technical assistance, coaching, and training.
Facilitate and provide disability-related training opportunities for parents and staff.
Provide support, advocacy, and guidance to families of children with disabilities.
Monitor services and progress for assigned children on an ongoing basis.
Participate in training and professional development activities related to disability services and early childhood education.
Ensure compliance with and implementation of IEP and IFSP services.
Monitor compliance with Head Start Performance Standards, the Head Start Act, and disability service requirements.
Follow Alliance policies and procedures related to health and safety requirements and emergency response protocols.
Assist with health screening and monitoring activities when required.
Perform other work-related duties as assigned.
Supervise children and keep them safe.