Support Services Specialist

Innovative Network of Knowledge•Monroe, LA

20h•Onsite

About The Position

Innovative Network of Knowledge (INK) is an educational nonprofit dedicated to finding and developing solutions for challenges faced by teachers, administrators, parents, and students. We offer comprehensive early childhood education and family support services through strong partnerships, innovative curriculums, and passionate staff. Our services for children and families include preschool, individualized teaching, degreed teachers, bilingual services, social services, parent trainings, meals and snacks, disability services, dental exams, mental wellness, health services, and field trips. We are committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace and encourage applications even if your experience and education don't perfectly match every requirement.

Requirements

High School diploma or GED.
Child Development Associate Credential (CDA) or state awarded certificate that meets or exceeds the requirements for a CDA credential, or enrolled in a CDA credential program to be completed within 18 months of hire.
One year of related work experience.
Demonstrate ability to respond sensitively and competently to the service population’s cultural and socioeconomic characteristics.
Communicate in writing and verbally in English.
Demonstrate ability to maintain emotional control and professional composure at all times.
Demonstrate a working knowledge of all INK policies and procedures.
Ability to organize and prioritize duties and responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.
Possess a valid driver’s license.
Complete and pass health examination.
Confirm work eligibility status.
Successfully pass driving history check.
Clear criminal background check.
Required to lift up to 60 pounds.
Required to stand, sit on the floor, bend, squat, kneel, lift children, and engage with children.
Exposure to communicable diseases, and other hazards such as cigarette smoke, pets, at risk neighborhoods, etc.
Travel up to 50% by car, bus, airplane, or train may also be required for conferences, meetings, and other duties at distant locations, potentially including overnight travel.
Some evenings and weekend work may occasionally be required for events such as home visits, parent teacher conferences, Parent Committee meetings, community, and social events such as field trips.
Must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. Sponsorship of employment Visas is not available.

Nice To Haves

Communicate in Spanish.

Responsibilities

Protect the physical and mental health and safety of children, ensuring no child is left alone or unsupervised.
Implement nutrition services that are culturally and developmentally appropriate, meeting individual needs and accommodating special dietary requirements and disabilities.
Ensure facilities, equipment, and materials are kept clean and safe for children's use in accordance with federal policies and agency protocols.
Implement hygiene practices including appropriate toileting, hand washing, and diapering procedures, safe food preparation, and handling of blood and body fluids consistent with OSHA standards.
Follow appropriate practices to keep children safe during all activities, including reporting suspected child abuse or neglect, and maintaining appropriate supervision.
Support and participate in staff development, including completion of minimum training requirements, continuing professional development, and staff wellness initiatives.
Respond to classroom requests for support in a timely manner, complying with Office of Head Start and agency regulations, policies, and protocols.
Establish regular communication with teachers regarding students' behavior and progress.
Monitor classrooms to ensure they are free from physical and environmental hazards.
Report all incidents within the timeframes designated in program policy and protocol.
Conduct daily cleaning of facilities, including classrooms, offices, bathrooms, and common areas.
Conduct and maintain inventory control of all cleaning supplies, including ordering and receiving supplies.
Perform or arrange seasonal deep cleaning and maintenance of building interior and exterior.
Implement hyper-sanitation protocols when directed.
Ensure that safety and health procedures are followed in accordance with federal and agency policy and protocols.
Prepare and serve classroom meals and assist with family-style meal activities.
Wash dishes, pots, pans and utensils using approved sanitation methods.
Conduct routine inspections and regular up-keep of interior and exterior areas to ensure areas are free of safety hazards, trash, weeds, and other foreign materials.
Conduct daily inspection/grounds keeping of outside areas, including lawns, landscaped beds, playgrounds, and parking areas.
Notify supervisor of any safety or health issues or concerns.
Assist with moving and/or transporting office and classroom furniture, fixtures, supplies and equipment.
Launder clothing and linens in support of classroom activities.
Assist with classroom supervision as needed.
Assist with set up/tear down for classroom and center activities, training, meetings, recruitment fairs, and special events.
Assist with repair and maintenance of buildings, storage facilities, machinery and equipment.
Perform other job duties as assigned.