POSITION SUMMARY:  This position is a program services position responsible for the implementation of family services in the assigned district according to federal and state regulations.  The Family Advocate performs assigned content services and assists with overall family services delivery.  Assigned duties will vary in each district and will include any or all responsibilities for ERSEA, Health, Parent Engagement and Family Services.  This position works collaboratively with management staff and school district partnership personnel.

QUALIFICATIONS:

This position requires a minimum of a High School Diploma or GED.  Must obtain a Family Services Credential within 18 months of hire.  The employee will be able to carry out duties with minimal supervision.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Implements assigned family services duties in assigned district(s) in accordance with Head Start Program Performance Standards, agency policies and procedures, and program goals and objectives.
2. Provides resource assistance to families as requested.
3. Maintains complete, current and accurate family services records.
4. Develops partnerships and positive relationships with families, school district personnel, and community agencies.
5. Positively promotes Murray Head Start within the school district and community.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

GENERAL:

• Work as a team member with the entire staff and attend district staff meetings and trainings when required.
• Warmly receive parents to the office and classrooms.
• Attend scheduled workshops, Family Services meetings, advisory committees and trainings.
• Establish and maintain accurate and up to date records on each child and family. Maintain confidentiality of information and records.
• Follow FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) and HIPAA (Health Information Privacy Act) regulations as they pertain to the program.
• Answer the phone, copy, collate, file and other office duties as needed.
• Be responsible for assigned Child Plus data entry and self-monitor for accuracy and completeness.
• Be familiar with Child Plus reports and be able to answer basic questions.
• Use word processing accurately and appropriately.  Obtain required approval when sending letters out from the office.
• Demonstrate accountability to supervisor(s) and follow program procedures for absences, timesheets, reports, forms and supplies.
• Establish and maintain a working relationship with local school district personnel, medical providers, local community agencies and partners. Participates in community groups to improve services to our families.  Works to increase awareness of Head Start in the community.
• Coordinate technology problems with school district technology representative, Head Start Data Services Specialist or Head Start supervisor.
• Establish and use a system for sharing information with other Family Service staff in the office.  
• Participates in the annual program self-assessment.  
• Other tasks as assigned by supervisor(s).

HEALTH & NUTRITION:

• Secure initial health related information from parents including the “request for information” from medical agencies, physical and immunizations.  Enforces health admission policies before entry into the classroom.
• Ensure that all children receive the required health screenings within the set time frame by arranging appointments and screenings.  Keep up to date immunization records and does not allow children to enter the classroom without current immunization certificate.  Ensures data is documented and entered into Child Plus in a timely basis.
• Follow up for children needing medical or dental services is done thoroughly, in a timely manner and is documented.  Parents are notified and assisted in arranging follow-up treatment when necessary.  Treatment tracking in Child Plus is kept current.
• Children’s health folders are complete and continually updated and include proper “hard copy” documentation.  Records are kept confidential.
• Parents are encouraged to participate in their child’s health care.  Information is provided to parents to assist them in understanding the health services their child will receive.  Parents are kept informed of their child’s health needs through end of the year health summaries, letters home, etc.
• Provides data, information and reports to the Health Specialist and Coordinator, as requested.  Monitors health reports (Child Plus) to check accuracy, discover data entry mistakes, track rescreens, etc.
• Establishes and maintains a positive working relationship with health and nutrition service providers and their staff.
• Assist in coordinating appointments with parents and mental health consultants.  Files mental health paperwork and enters appropriate data into Child Plus.
• Work with the school district and First Steps providers to establish disability records and obtain diagnostic information.  Keep disability data current in Child Plus.
• Forward appropriate health records to the primary school at the end of the school year for transitioning children.
• Serve as an advocate for children’s health needs.  Assist families to obtain a medical home and medical insurance coverage by referral to appropriate agencies.  Assist with making appointments to medical providers and provide transportation using a Head Start vehicle and car seat when needed.  Report medical neglect when appropriate.
• Work closely with the teaching staff regarding a child’s health needs (illness, head lice, etc.) scheduled appointments, and safety issues.  
• Be aware of children in the district with special health needs or that require medication on a regular basis.   Notify teaching staff, transportation staff and food service staff of these issues.
• Work with local food service personnel to ensure they have the paperwork needed to provide nutrition services to each child.

The statements outlined in the above description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed.  They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills that may be assigned by the immediate supervisor.

Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provision of the Board policy and Murray Head Start policy on Evaluation of Personnel.

Offers of employment are conditional pending satisfactory receipt of a recent physical examination, TB skin test/assessment, criminal background check, and Murray Independent Board and Policy Council approval.

Classification:    Classified

FLSA:                Non-Exempt

Murray Head Start is an Equal Opportunity Employer