Family Support Specialist

Head Start Family Support Specialist

The Head Start Family Support Specialist, under general supervision, provides consistent and multi-faceted support to the children and families being served through the Head Start program. This position works with families to develop and achieve Family Partnership Goals, often serving as a resource in this process. The Head Start Family Support Specialist provides families with a front line contact to address any issues or concerns that may arise relating to the education of an enrolled child. This position is heavily rooted in social services and requires detailed knowledge of community resources available to those being served in Head Start.

Essential duties and responsibilities include assisting in ensuring maximum enrollment for the Head Start program and the creation and maintenance of a waitlist by actively recruiting families within the community. The specialist assists families throughout the enrollment process, completing paperwork, obtaining documents, scheduling needed physical and dental exams among other possibilities, in some cases meeting with families off site or in their homes to complete their application packet. The specialist works with families, on an individual basis, to encourage, motivate and assist them in improving the conditions and quality of life. They assist families in developing ways to break down barriers keeping them from becoming active and engaged members of their community. The specialist assists families in carrying out health and social service recommendations or referrals, in some cases attending appointments with families. They maintain an accurate, up to date family service record on each assigned Head Start child. The specialist serves as a liaison between the Head Start family and Head Start Center the child is attending. They promote and assist in providing parent engagement in all facets of the Head Start Program. The specialist facilitates home visits as needed. They provide social-emotional and behavioral support to children within the classroom. The specialist participates in the transition process for children exiting the Head Start program and entering the K-12 school district. They provide training for volunteers, and at times, Policy Council and/or Parent Committee members. The specialist attends meetings and completes all required training. They serve on various committees, task forces or other countywide workgroups, as directed. The specialist performs such other tasks as may from time to time be assigned by the supervisor. Regular predictable attendance is required.

Qualifications to perform this job successfully include a Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work or Early Childhood. Experience working in a Head Start program is preferred. Comprehensive experience and an excellent knowledge of the Federal Head Start Program, policies, procedures, rules and regulations related to Head Start including Performance Standards, Grant and Service Plans. Knowledge of early childhood programs, related services (i.e., health, dental/oral health, mental health, human services, etc.) and financing. Experience working with low-income and high risk families. Excellent interpersonal skills. An understanding of the needs of and demands faced by Head Start families. A genuine empathy for and understanding of families with young children. Excellent records management skills and practices. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Excellent organizational, leadership and interpersonal skills. Experience working as part of a team. Knowledge of administrative practices and procedures, including filing and business letter writing. Excellent data management and assessment skills. Current valid driver's license and reliable transportation is necessary to ensure completion of duties required.