Family Partner- Educational Specialist

POSITION: Family Partner- Educational Specialist

SUPERVISOR: Regional Family Partner Supervisor

STATUS: Full‐time 40 hours, 12 months, At‐will non‐exempt Employee

Overview:

The Family Partner-Educational Specialist is responsible for helping families statewide to understand and navigate special education and healthcare services; conduct training workshops; assist families to access resources, information and services; assist parents in collaborating with schools and health providers to develop appropriate Individualized Education Programs and/or health plans.

Essential Duties:

Family Support:

• Provide individual assistance and support to parents of children with disabilities regarding special education, and health care access.
• Conduct trainings.
• Promote parent/educator partnership by supporting families of children with disabilities, special educators, specialists, and administrators to increase parental engagement in special education and healthcare.
• Work as a collaborative team member with other community organizations to conduct family events and fulfill other project related responsibilities.
• Promote parent/educator partnership by supporting families of children with disabilities, special educators, specialists, and administrators to increase parental engagement in special education and healthcare.

Outreach and Engagement:

• Outreach to underserved communities to identify and recruit families of children with disabilities and special healthcare needs participating in our programs and services.
• Outreach to diverse communities by distributing materials at community gathering places and resource fairs to ensure program visibility.
• Work as a collaborative team member with other community organizations to conduct family events and fulfill other project related responsibilities.

Administration:

• Maintain accurate and up‐to‐date files and documentation online for complete and timely data entry and reporting.
• Maintain confidentiality of family information.
• Attend program and staff meetings and training as determined by leadership.
• Other duties as assigned by the supervisor and/or Executive Director

Qualifications:

• Strong verbal and written communication skills in both languages.
• Family member or parent of child with a disability and/or special healthcare needs is preferred.
• Prior experience assisting other families to obtain appropriate services and supports for their child and family members a plus.
• Familiarity with state and local resources and how to access them.
• Strong computer skills and able to use Microsoft Office software, such as Word, Excel, and Power Point effectively
• Track record of respect for others’ experiences, opinions, language, values, culture, and knowledge
• Demonstrated commitment to teamwork and collaboration
• Knowledge of special education, healthcare, DDA system, social services, resources, and information for people with disabilities
• Proven ability as an effective communicator and strong advocate for people with disabilities and special healthcare needs and their families
• Available for flexible work hours (some evenings and weekends as needed)
• Reliable transportation.
• Applicants must reside in one of the following areas: Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Harford, and Cecil counties

Generous paid time off and health benefits