SUMMARY 

Works directly with children diagnosed with moderate to severe disabilities in the classroom to implement the goals and objectives of the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) per state law and Head Start Program Performance Standards, philosophy and mission 

Assist in achieving the agency’s vision, “For Those We Serve,” by empowering individuals who thrive as healthy, self-sufficient and contributing members of our communities.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Assists the Teacher and the Inclusion Services Specialist in providing full inclusion into a regular preschool classroom for children with moderate to severe disabilities. 

Performs classroom duties in conjunction with daily lesson plans, classroom schedules, and activities.

Works with Teacher and Inclusion staff in providing developmentally appropriate activities outlined in the child’s IEP.

Collaborates with staff in implementing appropriate behavior management techniques for identified children with disabilities. 

Assists the child with toileting or other personal care as needed during class time. 

Attends ongoing training regarding child development and various disabilities. 

Models professionalism for staff, parents, children, clients, and community members. Promotes a collaborative environment within the service areas, program, and agency.  

Travels to all Head Start centers/sites to communicate, monitor, and visit each site periodically. 

Adheres to the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA-2010) which prohibits discriminatory actions towards children and/or adult with disabilities.  In particular, children with disabilities are enrolled in the classroom as mandated by Federal Law.

Maintains strict compliance with universal precautions. 

Maintains strict confidentiality of records and information on Head Start 0 to 5  staff, children and families.

Actively encourages and embraces diversity.

Travels for agency business using personal transportation.

Maintains regular attendance and punctuality. 

Works evenings and weekends as required.

Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

To execute this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION:

• High School Diploma or GED required.

EXPERIENCE:

• Head Start 0 to 5 volunteer experience preferred.
• Previous work experience with children with disabilities preferred.

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS: 

Bilingual in English and Spanish or other secondary language may be required based on the needs of the clients and the program.

Maintain a valid California driver’s license, reliable transportation, adequate auto insurance as required by State law, and insurability by agency carrier for those driving agency vehicles. Proof of insurance will be required.

Physical examination, TB screening clearance and signed federal criminal record declaration are required within 7 days after employment.

Immunized against influenza (flu), pertussis (whooping cough) and measles. The influenza vaccination must be obtained annually during flu season, August 1 through December 1.  A person is exempt from the immunization requirements for the following circumstances:

1.   The person submits a written statement from a licensed physician declaring that because of the person’s physical condition or medical circumstances, the immunization is not safe.

2.   The person submits a written statement from a licensed physician providing that the person has evidence of current immunity to pertussis (whooping cough) and/or measles.

3.   The person submits in writing declaration that he or she has declined the influenza (flu) vaccination. This exemption only applies to the influenza (flu) vaccine.

Pass required reference checks and fingerprint clearance under Title 22 regulations: Department of Justice/FBI, Criminal Record Statement Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) and background investigation as needed prior to employment.

Obtain a valid AB 1207 Mandated Reporter Certification prior to first day of employment.

Pass and maintain Basic Pest Management in a Child Care Settings annual certification as required by the California Healthy Schools Act (HSA).  

Former Head Start 0 to 5 parents preferred.