Health Coordinator - Head Start

Job Description

Job Description

Head Start Health Coordinator

1 FTE (40 Hours/Week)

Position Summary

The Head Start Health Coordinator leads and overseas all health services in accordance with the Head Start Program Performance Standards. This position ensures that enrolled children and families receive comprehensive, timely, and coordinated health services that promote school readiness and overall well-being.

The Health Coordinator works collaboratively with Family Service Coordinators (FSC’s), Early Head Start (EHS) Family Educators (FE’s), teaching staff, community health partners, and program leadership to implement health, dental, nutrition, and safety requirements. This role serves as a liaison between the program and the broader health community within Scott, Carver, and Dakota counties.

Essential Functions

Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), may include the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is illustrative and not comprehensive. Regular attendance and preparedness to begin work at the assigned location and scheduled time are essential job functions.

Health Record Monitoring & Compliance

• Review and monitor all children’s health and dental records for completeness and compliance.
• Ensure each enrolled child has an ongoing source of continuous, accessible health care; assist families in securing a medical and dental home when needed.
• Track and verify completion of required screenings, physical exams, immunizations, and dental exams.
• Develop and implement follow-up plans for children requiring additional evaluation or treatment, ensuring timely resolution.
• Maintain complete, accurate, and confidential child and family health data within the ChildPlus database.

Care Coordination & Individual Health Planning

• Communicate with physicians, families, and teaching staff to develop and implement classroom health care plans for children with special health needs, including medication management plans.
• Provide ongoing consultation and guidance to staff regarding emerging health concerns in classrooms or the community.
• Develop clear communication and resource materials for families and program staff regarding health-related issues.

Health Systems & Community Partnerships

• Promote a team-based approach to health services delivery across all program components.
• Identify and utilize state and local resources for health requirements, immunizations, dental services, water lead testing, and other health-related needs.
• Collaborate with community partners to coordinate on-site dental clinics, lead screenings, health fairs, and other health initiatives.
• Maintain and distribute updated resource listings for medical, dental, and community health providers.
• Serve as an advocate for child health and as a liaison to the health community throughout Minnesota.

Advisory & Parent Engagement

• Facilitate and organize the Health Services Advisory Committee (HSAC).
• Utilize the HSAC in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the program’s health services.
• Promote active parent engagement, including encouraging parent participation on the Health Services Advisory Committee and other health-related activities.

Health Education & Program Integration

• Integrate health education into the overall Head Start program.
• Provide health education opportunities for parents, children, and staff.
• Support Family Service Coordinators and Family Educators with updated health resources and classroom health plans as new issues arise.

Health & Safety Oversight

• Conduct Health and Safety checks in each classroom twice per year.
• Conduct water lead testing at all sites following state guidelines.
• Monitor and document classroom tooth-brushing practices twice per year.
• Order health supplies for classrooms and Early Head Start; manage inventory and ensure adequate materials are available.

MISION DRIVEN COMPETENCIES

• Fostering Teamwork
• Continuous Improvement
• Communication
• Building Collaborative Relationships
• Customer Centered
• Analytical Thinking
• Use of Technology and information management

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in nursing, Public Health, Health Education, Community Health, Social Work, or a closely related field.
  (An equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience may be considered.)
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience coordinating health services for young children and families, preferably in early childhood, public health, or community-based setting.
• Demonstrated knowledge of child health requirements, immunization schedules, preventive health care, and community health systems.
• Experience working with diverse families in a culturally responsive and strengths-based manner.
• Ability to interpret and apply federal, state, and local regulations related to child health and safety.
• Experience maintaining confidential records and using data management systems (experience with ChildPlus or similar database preferred).
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to track compliance deadlines, follow-up plans, and multiple health requirements simultaneously.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel locally as required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Registered RN or LPN
• Experience working in a Head Start or Early Head Start program.
• Knowledge of Minnesota Department of Health requirements and local public health systems.
• Experience facilitating committees or advisory groups, such as the Health Services Advisory Committee.
• Experience developing individual health care plans for children with chronic health conditions.
• Background in maternal and infant health, particularly home visiting or newborn support.
• Bilingual or multilingual skills reflective of the communities served.
• Experience providing health education and training to adult learners.

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

A valid Minnesota State Driver’s License may be required.

Work is performed in a standard office environment which requires occasionally lifting such articles as file boxes or heavier materials with help from others and/or lifting and carrying light objects frequently. Mobility to drive a motor vehicle to attend meetings, visit classrooms, and complete screenings. A job in this category may require walking or standing to a significant degree or may involve sitting most of the time with long periods of computer work and phone usage.

ORGANIZATIONAL INFORMATION

Grade: N-5

FLSA Status: Exempt

Department: Head Start

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION POLICY: Scott, Carver, Dakota CAP Agency will not deny anyone the opportunities for training or employment because of sex, race, religion, color, creed, national origin, marital status, age, sexual preference, disability or status regarding public assistance.

The Scott Carver Dakota CAP Agency is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and is committed to building a culturally diverse workforce