JOB SUMMARY:

The Head Start Mental Health Services Coordinator is responsible for coordinating mental health services across the Head Start program in collaboration with cooperative agencies, ensuring compliance with all federal, state, local, and other relevant policies and guidelines. The Coordinator will serve as the special education intake coordinator for site referrals, provide teacher consultation, promote community awareness, offer crisis counseling, and manage referrals to outside agencies. This role emphasizes integrity, collaboration, respect, and excellence in service to children, families, and staff.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Mental Health Observations and Consultation Services:

Conduct classroom observations of procedures, atmosphere, physical layout, teacher/child and child/curriculum interactions, focusing on both individual children and overall classroom dynamics.
Collaborate with teachers to identify children who may need individual assessments or multidisciplinary interventions, ensuring teacher insights and observations are central to decision-making.
Provide supportive, non-judgmental consultation for teachers on classroom management and child development, fostering professional growth and respect.

Evaluations and Assessments:

Conduct intake interviews with parents/guardians and evaluate children through classroom observations and external professional assessments.
Communicate evaluation results clearly and respectfully to parents/guardians, Head Start Directors, and teachers.
Ensure all evaluation processes uphold confidentiality, respect, and fairness.

Disabilities Services:

Coordinate all aspects of disability services, including recruitment, enrollment, and ongoing support.
Lead METS meetings for children with disabilities, working closely with multi-disciplinary teams, LEA personnel, teachers, and parents to develop and implement individualized education plans (IEPs).
Maintain accurate, up-to-date records and documentation, ensuring secure and confidential child service tracking.
Facilitate smooth transitions for children with disabilities into LEA systems, supporting families with guidance and resources.
Promote a culture of inclusivity, support, and respect for all children and families.

Training and Staff Support:

Assist in planning and conducting pre-service workshops, staff training, staff meetings, and parent group sessions.
Identify and implement training opportunities for staff and parents based on observed needs and support system feedback.
Encourage collaboration, shared learning, and open communication among staff and parents to strengthen the program’s community.

Expectations for Excellence:

Model ethical behavior, integrity, and fairness in all interactions.
Build strong partnerships through communication, active listening, and mutual respect.
Approach challenges with creativity, research-informed decision-making, and innovative solutions.
Support a positive, inclusive environment that values diversity, collaboration, and the strengths of every child, family, and staff member.

Technology:

Must be proficient in technology, both software and hardware. This includes utilizing ChildPlus, KidKare, and Online LAP.

Other:

Performs other Head Start/Early Head Start duties required to accomplish the Head Start/Early Head Start mission.
This position requires frequent travel to off-site locations.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

The environment is varied to include the Head Start Support office, Head Start Centers, and various Community Resources. Must be mobile and agile to perform required tasks such as lifting up to forty-five (45) pounds, reaching above the head and below the knee, or positioning the body to be on the child’s level and the floor level. Must be able to bend, stop, kneel, crouch, and run or walk hurriedly for a child’s safety.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED:

Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education or a related field (aligned with Head Start Performance Standards for Mental Health and Disabilities support staff).
Deep understanding of service delivery for children with special needs and developmental disabilities.
Five (5) years of dedicated experience in providing services specifically to children with special needs.
Experience that satisfies the research-backed requirements for specialized program roles within Head Start.
Advanced "soft skills" and the ability to navigate complex sensitive interactions with families and staff.
Capacity to lead initiatives, manage cases, and oversee program compliance within the disability component.
Must meet all state and funding source requirements, including mandatory fingerprinting and background clearances.
Possession of a valid Oklahoma Driver’s License and access to reliable transportation for site visits and family support.
Ability to consistently meet all established work environment standards.

QUALIFICATIONS DESIRED:

Master’s Degree in Special Education or a related field.

SUPERVISION:

Reports to: Director of Early Childhood Programs

Supervisors: None assigned

Coordinates with: Head Start Management, Agency personnel and other agencies.

Community Action Agency of Oklahoma City

Mental Health Services Coordinator

About the Job