GENERAL SUMMARY:
Under the supervision of the Education/Disabilities Manager, directs the operation of the Mental Health Component to ensure compliance of Head Start/ Early Head Start program with Head Start Performance Standards and provides consultation and referral services that assist families and staff in the understanding of mental wellness.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
· Serve as a resource to program staff regarding mental health concerns to enable the timely and effective identification of and intervention in staff concerns about a child’s mental health with a regular schedule of on- site mental health consultation at Head Start, Early Head Start classrooms, CCP partner locations and monthly visits to State Preschool and CCTR sites.
· Conduct mental health observation of the entire class as a group and sharing observations with classroom staff.
· Assist teachers/partners in improving teaching practices that include using classroom observations and consultations to address individual child needs and creating a physical and cultural environment that promote positive mental health and social-emotional functioning.
· Other staff, including home visitors, to meet children’s mental health needs through strategies that includes consultation on a regular basis
· Collaborates with the Education Team and CDs to ensure that the Social Emotional curriculum (Second Step) is integrated into the overall Head Start curriculum approach and training.
· Participation in the Head Start and Early Head Start Classroom Management plans in coordination with CMC and center staff
· Assist staff in the Implementation of the policies to limit suspension and prohibit expulsion as describes in Section 1302.17 of HS Performance Standards
· Provides staff and parent training presentations as identified as part of the program in-service planning to appropriately implement the mental health standards.
· Meets regularly with the Ed/Dis. Manager to plan and evaluate services to ensure that services are being delivered in an effective and efficient manner.
QUALIFICATIONS:
To perform 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
· Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT)
· Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
Education and Experience
· At least 3-5 years’ experience working with young children (0-5) and families.
Other Requirements
· Ability to pass criminal record clearance
· Clear TB test and statement of good health from doctor are required as a condition of employment
· Ability to provide proof of immunization against measles, pertussis, influenza, and COIVD.
· Willingness to report any suspected child abuse as required by state law.
· Strong verbal/written communication and management skills.
· Bi-lingual English/Spanish skills desirable
· Must complete Mandated Reporter training upon hire
· Valid California driver’s license; vehicle liability insurance.
· Working knowledge of Telephone, fax, copier, personal computer with related software, including database, Word, Excel, email, and internet
Other Skills and Abilities
· Ability to develop positive working relationships with other staff, parents, volunteers, and community partners
· Must be committed to high standard of safety and be willing and able to comply with employer safety policies
· Must maintain regular and acceptable attendance in compliance with agency Attendance policy
This job description is not intended to be understood to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required. Duties and responsibilities may vary depending individual site needs.