Disability Facilitator

Job Description

Job Description

Under the supervision and guidance of the Mental Health/Disability Manager, the EHS Disability Facilitator will work to implement high-quality comprehensive services to children with disabilities, that are developmentally, culturally, and linguistically appropriate (HSPPS 1302: Subpart F).

• Share culturally, linguistically, and developmentally appropriate, science-informed information regarding the needs of children with disabilities with staff and parents in the parent/teacher's primary language.
• If warranted through screening and additional relevant information with the parent's consent, promptly and appropriately address any needs identified through a referral to the local agency responsible for implementing the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) for a formal evaluation to assess the child's eligibility for services under IDEA as soon as possible, and not to exceed timelines required under IDEA (HSPPS 1302.33 (a)(3)) and Le Jardin Community Center policy timelines.

In collaboration with the Family Services unit, work to recruit and enroll children with suspected or identified disabilities, attending transition meetings with agencies which serve children with disabilities, to ensure the program meets the 10% mandated disability requirements (HSPPS 1302.13).

• Arrange for formal evaluation of a child who has been identified with a concern from a science-based screening assessment, teacher report, or parental concern through a referral to the appropriate agencies for evaluation as soon as the concern has been identified; to include external referrals to private providers to ensure services are linked. (HSPPS 1302.61)
• Review, revise for accuracy and submit monthly reports to include the Child Plus reports: 3501, 9710, and 9717 in accordance with Le Jardin Policy and Procedures.
• Participate in meetings with the appropriate agency charged with evaluation of a child, providing support and guidance to the families along with teachers and other program staff (HSPPS 1302.61(b)).
• Ensure that services for children with disabilities are planned and delivered as required by their Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or Individual Family Support Plan (IFSP), and that children are working towards the goals stipulated in those documents (HSPPS 1302.61 (c)).
• Participate in transition meetings for children who have an IFSP to collaborate with parents, staff, and local agency responsible for implementing IDEA, to ensure appropriate steps are undertaken to determine the child's eligibility for services under IDEA (HSPPS 1302.61(2).
• Review formal evaluations to determine if the child has a significant delay in one or more areas of development that is likely to interfere with the child's development and school readiness; and partner with parents to help the family access services and supports to help address the child's identified needs (HSPPS 1302.33 (5))
• Discuss screening results and evaluations with parents and relevant staff to develop follow up intervention plans and monitor and adjust strategies to better support individualized learning and improve teaching practices (HSPPS 1302.33 (b)(2)).
• Partner with the child's parents and the relevant local agency to support families through the formal evaluation process (HSPPS 1302.33 (a)(3)(ii)).
• Work with parents to obtain necessary parental consents and supporting documentation for the identification and provision of services for children with disabilities (suspected or identified) (HSPPS 1302.60).
• Work with and provide to parents to ensure children's needs are met, and help parents become advocates for their children. Assist parents in accessing services and resources for their children (HSPPS 1302.62).
• Maintain and protect confidentiality, and respect the privacy of others in accordance with Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS 1303.20).
• Meet regularly with staff to ensure that all internal referrals are being addressed and follow up is being conducted in a timely manner.
• Maintain up-to-date documentation in ChildPlus of children's progress and follow up.
• Pick Up/Drop off from classrooms children that need to receive evaluations/therapy sessions to and from Le Jardin Community Center Mental Health Wellness Mobile Bus. Must accompany and supervise children during evaluations/therapy sessions.
• Administration has the authority to assign additional duties as seen fit for the benefit of the organization (HSPPS 1302.91).

Knowledge, Abilities and Skills

• Knowledge in Head Start Program Performance Standards preferred.
• Knowledge of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the local Part B and Part C providers within the state of Florida (Miami-Dade County) preferred.
• Ability to work closely with agencies responsible for implementing IDEA services.
• Ability to work closely with local specialists, including mental health professionals, to ensure that services are provided to children with special needs.
• Ability to multi-task and work under pressure.
• Must be able to work at multiple locations on any given day

Bilingual preferred

• Associates or higher in social work, psychology, human services, child development, early childhood education, or a related field.
• Must be able to sit and stand for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to lift 40 pounds.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.
• 45 DCF Hours and Part I and II Exams (must be obtained within DCF mandated timeline).

Salary : See the most recent salary schedule.

FLSA Status : Non-Exempt