Early Intervention Manager - Head Start Program

Capital Area Community Services Inc.•Lansing, MI

About The Position

The Early Intervention Manager manages and staffs the Disability Services and Mental Health Services of the Head Start and Early Head Start Programs. The role oversees referrals and tracks early intervention services, including Individualized Education Plans and behavior plans, to help ensure that children with disabilities receive applicable program services in the least restrictive possible environment and fully participate in program activities. The manager develops agreements with local and intermediate school districts regarding referrals, evaluations, and services, and coordinates with CACS, Inc., education agencies, and community organizations. The role also builds the capacity of staff and parents to advocate for and support the full and effective participation of children with disabilities through training, support, and technical assistance. The position provides leadership and direct supervision for the Disability Services and Mental Health areas, coordinates intervention services, monitors referrals and department systems, and works with program staff and community partners to ensure compliance with IDEA and Michigan special education laws. It supports family involvement, prepares reports for the governing body and other stakeholders, and develops or sources training for staff and parents. The role also coordinates practicum opportunities with local colleges and universities. The position requires a bachelor's degree in a human services or education field, such as child development, special education, mental health, early childhood education, social work, or a related field. A special education degree and/or experience is preferred. At least two years of experience managing others and two years providing early childhood services are required. The employee must follow applicable Head Start, licensing, and other federal, state, and local requirements; maintain confidentiality and professional communication; attend required meetings and training; and participate in quality assurance and self-assessment. Staff are expected to work cooperatively as a team and ensure children's active supervision and safety. Physical requirements include stooping, bending, lifting, climbing stairs, and moderate physical exertion. Employment requires satisfactory completion of background checks, fingerprinting, a physical exam and TB assessment, and drug screening at hire and periodically thereafter.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a human services or education field, such as Child Development, Special Education, Mental Health, Early Childhood Education, Social Work, or a related degree.
At least 2 years of experience managing others.
At least 2 years of experience providing early childhood services.
Satisfactory completion of a federal criminal history check with fingerprinting, physical exam and TB assessment, and drug screening at hire and periodically thereafter.
Ability to stoop, bend, lift, climb stairs, and perform moderate physical exertion.
Ability to follow applicable regulations, maintain confidentiality, communicate clearly, and work cooperatively with a team.

Nice To Haves

Special Education degree and/or experience.

Responsibilities

Manage and provide direct supervision and leadership to the Disability Services and Mental Health areas of the program.
Create and support team systems, tools, and processes.
Coordinate intervention services for children enrolled in Head Start and Early Head Start.
Initiate and monitor referrals for children who need special education or early intervention evaluation.
Ensure internal and external referrals receive timely responses and are addressed.
Collect and analyze data to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of systems and procedures.
Collaborate with other managers to integrate screening data and identify children needing individualized planning or further assessment.
Advocate for children, parents, and the program in obtaining appropriate services.
Assist with parent involvement efforts and encourage family participation.
Ensure that at least 10% of enrolled Head Start/Early Head Start children are eligible for special education or early intervention services with an IFSP or IEP.
Establish and maintain collaborative relationships and formal service agreements with community agencies and LEA/ISD partners.
Ensure school district referrals include input from parents and relevant program areas, including Health & Mental Health, Education, PFCE, and Transportation when appropriate.
Ensure compliance with IDEA and Michigan special education laws and that eligible children receive applicable services in the least restrictive environment and participate fully in program activities.
Monitor department processes and provide data to the administrative team, community partners, and governing body when requested; provide governing body reports monthly or upon request.
Develop, facilitate, or source training for staff and parents based on individual children's and program needs.
Coordinate practicum experiences with local colleges and universities for students pursuing careers supporting young children.
Develop and monitor policies and procedures that support effective and efficient systems.
Follow Head Start Performance Standards, Michigan Child Care Licensing Regulations, and other applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
Maintain professional confidentiality, communicate clearly and accurately, attend required meetings and training, and participate in quality assurance and self-assessment.
Work cooperatively with staff across sites and contribute to positive team relationships and shared goals.
Ensure children are actively supervised and engaged and follow required child-safety and supervision procedures.
Follow universal safety precautions and interact with children appropriately and safely.