Disabilities SpecialistGrade: 123Terms of Employment: 216 Days (11 months)FLSA Status: ExemptWork Location: RPS Head Start Locations – Head Start ManagerStarting Date: ImmediatelySalary: $71,756 to $110,353 per yearResponsibilitiesOversees the Disability Service area component of the EHS/HS ProgramCollaborates with staff to ensure completion of all developmental screenings (speech, hearing, and vision) in accordance with the Head Start Federal Performance StandardsReviews developmental screenings to determine next course of action for children who meet the developmental screening cut-off (i.e. follow-up, educational intervention services, additional screenings, etc.)Organizes and coordinates the program's disability services effort, including recruitment, enrollment, screenings and coordination of specialized servicesCoordinates and processes pre‑referrals and referrals for special education using the HS diagnostic criteria checklist to determine the appropriateness for a child participation in the special education process; works in collaboration with the child's parents, EHS Specialist or Head Start Child Development Specialist, and teaching staff to provide intervention strategies for children not eligible for special education servicesServes as administrator/designee of the multidisciplinary team for HS children going through the special education process (child study, assessment, eligibility, IEPs, 504 plans, etc.) and ensures all aspects of the process are being followed in accordance with the Head Start Federal Performance Standards, local, state, and other federal regulationsSchedules and coordinates child study, eligibility, Individual Education Plan (IEP) and IEP review meetings, ensuring parental consent and permission forms are signed and evaluators are informed of the required evaluations and timelinesParticipates in the development of an IEP in conjunction with other qualified professionals of the multidisciplinary team; enters all aspects of the special education process into the schools' IEP online systemDevelops and maintains a system for tracking and monitoring all activities of EHS/HS children with disabilities to ensure that program procedures, state and federal guidelines and mandates are being followedSubmits required monthly program reports to the Program ManagerDevelops, monitors and coordinates the Disabilities services planDevelops and monitors interagency agreements with the Local Education Agencies (LEAs) and the city's local early intervention agency in partnership with the Program ManagerWorks with teaching staff to develop, implement and document the transition of children from special education programs and conducts end‑of‑year Individual Family Service Plan/Individual Education Plan (IFSP/IEP) reviews for children transitioning to preschool or KindergartenProvides guidance and developmentally appropriate strategies to maximize successful inclusion and continuity of care for children with disabilitiesPlans and conducts or coordinates training for EHS/HS staff and parentsParticipates in the program's self‑assessment and community needs assessmentAttends training and/or conferences to keep staff abreast of all EHS/HS mandates and special education lawsWorks in collaboration with ECE leadership to create and support annual professional development plans for teaching staff and development of annual program goalsPerforms other duties as assignedQualificationsMinimum of a Baccalaureate Degree in special education, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech and language pathology, child development, or related field required; Master's degree preferredMinimum of three years related experience working with children with special needs and their familiesOne year of experience as a grade level chairperson, lead teacher, or school‑based compliance coordinator preferredKnowledge of the Early Head Start (EHS)/Head Start Program and the special education processExperience in adult learning and ability to model best practices in an early childhood setting for diverse adult learners with different knowledge levels and skill setsAbility to analyze data and coach teaching staff to use data to inform instructionComprehensive knowledge of research‑based curricula, assessment tools, and best practices in teacher‑child interaction along with VDOE standards for early childhood educationExcellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to communicate complex ideas simply and succinctlyOutstanding interpersonal and teamwork skills; ability to work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholdersStrong organizational skills, including keen attention to detail and ease at managing competing demands and determining priorities independentlyExperience working in a fast‑paced environment; adaptable when managing multiple, shifting priorities; comfortable with ambiguityProficiency in Google Suite and/or Microsoft OfficePossess a valid driver's license and/or ability to obtain a valid Virginia Driver's License within six months of employment, as well as use of a personal vehicleBilingual/fluency in Spanish preferredRichmond Public Schools will conduct a background investigation, fingerprinting and tuberculosis screening as a condition of employment. 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