Education & Language Advocacy Specialist

DCARA•San Leandro, CA

27d•Onsite

About The Position

This role supports the parents of Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled, Hard of Hearing, LateDeafened, and hearing children in navigating the special education system. The Education & Language Advocacy Specialist provides IFSP, IEP, and ITP guidance before, during, and after meetings and serves as an advocate to ensure each child’s educational and language access needs are understood and addressed. This position also focuses on empowering Deaf parents with children and hearing parents with Deaf children through education, resources, and advocacy support.

Requirements

An Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS) degree in Deaf Education, Special Education, Child Development, or a closely related field
A minimum of three (3) years of documented professional experience in a relevant educational or clinical setting
Fluency in American Sign Language (ASL) and in written English.
Experience working with Deafchildren and their families
Knowledge of special education laws, regulations and procedures
Effective communication and interpersonal skills
Proficient language skills in teaching, communication, and written english skills.
Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Ability to work with diverse people from different backgrounds, racial, economic, linguistic, cultural, religious, disability and communication backgrounds
Must be flexible to work some evenings and weekends
Access to reliable transportation
Minimum of three days per-week on-site presence required
Must be based within commuting distance of San Leandro for three mandatory in-office days per week.
Applicants must live within the Bay Area and be available to meet with clients on short notice.
This is a client-facing role requiring regular on-site presence.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Deaf Education, Special Education, or a related field; or equivalent experience in above subject matters
A minimum of five (5) years of documented professional experience in a relevant educational or clinical setting
Experience conducting technical analysis that considers impacts on multiple communities, including communities of color, and incorporating diverse community perspectives into decision-making processes and outcomes
Experience working on a diverse team, individuals with different ASL styles and other communication modes, and linguistically and culturally appropriate services delivery methods
Proficient computer skills including word processing and database management

Responsibilities

Provides pre and post IFSP, IEP, and ITP counseling to parents
Attend IFSP, IEP, and ITP meetings as an advocate alongside families
Support parents in understanding educational plans, services, and next steps
Conduct school observations to assess learning environments and language access
Share Deaf centered language development and access best practices for ages 0 to 22 with emphasis on early childhood and kindergarten readiness
Consult with the Youth & Family Services Manager on active cases
Provide families with information about agencies, schools, and special education resources
Support and participate in parent workshops, webinars, and community education events
Travel to schools, client locations, and community sites during the workweek as needed
Maintain accurate and timely client records, case notes, and service data in Salesforce
Stay current on Deaf education research, best practices, and relevant laws
Support agency and community activities as assigned by the Direct Supervisor
Submit interpreter requests for assignments in accordance with grant and program requirements
Assist the Youth & Family Services Manager with public awareness workshops at least two times per year
Stay informed on current research, best practices, and legislation related to Deaf education and special education
Share accurate and updated information with families and internal staff