Inclusion Specialist

at  YMCA of the East Bay

POSITION SUMMARY:

These general functions will be carried out in keeping with the Goals, Mission and Policies of the YMCA of the East Bay. The Inclusion Specialist is responsible for providing classroom and home support for children with disabilities and other special needs enrolled in all ECI programs to include; mentoring, coaching and supporting teaching staff; monitoring/developing and implementing individualized plans; and working closely with staff, service providers and families to ensure the full inclusion of children into the Head Start/Early Head Start/Child Development programs. This includes compliance with all applicable regulations and procedures.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s Degree in Special Education, Early Childhood/Special Education or a related field from an accredited college or university preferred. Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university with a concentration in Education/Special Education/Behavioral Science considered, with demonstrated ability to meet job competencies.
• Two years’ teaching, early intervention, coaching or related experience with low income, diverse populations, preferably in federal and/or state subsidized program
• A high degree of cultural awareness and competency in cross-cultural practices with children and families
• Experience working with children who have special needs
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to serve as a Special Education Advocate for families when needed
• Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred
• Livescan clearance by the DOJ and CCL agencies
• Criminal record clearance and health requirements that include TB screen and other required health clearances
• Valid CDL and use of a personal automobile including evidence of auto liability insurance coverage
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, databases and other computer programs

1. Design and deliver high-quality programming that achieves the educational, administrative, and service delivery goals.
2. Plan and implement strategies for working with teachers and children with special needs. Strategies may include: observation in the classroom, implement early intervention based on data, modeling interventions/interactions for teaching staff, assist with developing goals to support full inclusion students.
3. Provide support, training, and case management to families with children who have special needs.
4. Coordinate completion and follow up for behavioral and developmental screenings.
5. Attend IEP/IFSP meetings and develop/oversee implementation of individualized plans for children with special needs and/or challenging behavior.
6. As an integral part of a Multidisciplinary team-Develop Individualized Positive Behavior Intervention Support Plans, model and train teaching staff on strategies including Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning.
7. Participate in Professional Development days based on classroom and program needs.
8. Manage and track referrals to local school districts and the Regional Center of the East Bay.
9. Maintain detailed records and reports.
10. Review child screening/assessment results and provide follow-up. 11. Work collaboratively and coordinate services with other staff and service providers including frequent meetings to support wrap around services.
11. Provide consistent communication to families and build positive reciprocal relationships.
12. Special projects and other duties as assigned.