Job Description

The Maryland Rural Development Corporation (MRDC) is a private non-profit organization that provides services in response to the needs of rural, low-income households and communities. MRDC serves as Caroline, Cecil, Harford and Kent Counties’ official Community Action Agency.

The Mental Health and Disabilities Coordinator is responsible for ensuring that Head Start programs provide high-quality, inclusive services to children with disabilities and those experiencing mental health challenges. This role involves collaborating with families, teachers, and community partners to support children’s social-emotional well-being and developmental needs while ensuring compliance with Head Start Performance Standards and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

Job Responsibilities:

• Ensure Head Start programs meet all federal, state, and local regulations regarding services for children with disabilities and mental health needs.
• Develop, implement, and monitor policies and procedures related to mental health and disabilities services.
• Maintain accurate documentation of screenings, referrals, Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs), and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
• Collaborate with Early Intervention and Special Education service providers to ensure timely evaluations and service delivery.
• Coordinate mental health screenings, assessments, and referrals for children with emotional and behavioral concerns.
• Provide training and coaching to staff and families on trauma-informed care, positive behavior interventions, and mental health strategies.
• Work with mental health consultants and specialists to support children, families, and staff.
• Promote social-emotional development and inclusion practices in the classroom.
• Ensure that children with disabilities receive appropriate accommodations and support within Head Start classrooms.
• Provide guidance to teachers and staff on best practices for working with children with diverse developmental needs.
• Assist families in navigating special education services and advocating for their child’s needs.
• Monitor and track disability services data to ensure program compliance and effectiveness.
• Build relationships with families to support their child’s mental health and developmental progress.
• Coordinate parent training sessions on child development, special education rights, and available resources.
• Develop partnerships with local mental health agencies, early intervention programs, and school districts to enhance services.
• Provide professional development for Head Start staff on mental health, disability inclusion, and behavioral interventions.
• Conduct classroom observations and offer guidance on best practices for supporting children with special needs.
• Support staff in implementing individualized strategies for children with challenging behaviors or developmental delays.
• Assure that files are complete, accurate, and confidentially maintained
• Thinks, concentrates, and positively interacts with others
• Comes to work promptly every day
• Works under stress and meets all deadlines
• OTHER DUTIES: (Duties listed are not intended to be all inclusive nor limit duties that might reasonably be assigned.) Performs related work as required or assigned.

Physical Demands:

• Office and classroom-based with travel for home visits, trainings, and community meetings.
• Occasional evening or weekend work may be required for training sessions or family events.
• Position requires significant periods of standing, walking, kneeling, sitting on the floor or crouching
• May at times require lifting 25lbs – 50lbs

Terms of Employment:

• Twelve (12) month; full-time position

Compensation:

$57,470 - $65,000 annually; Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, Special Education, Early Childhood Education, or a related field from an accredited college or university
• At least 2 years of experience in early childhood mental health, disability services, special education, or a related field.
• Experience working with Head Start or early childhood programs preferred.

Required Skills/Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of IDEA, ADA, and Head Start Performance Standards related to disabilities and mental health.
• Ability to work collaboratively with families, educators, and community partners.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and advocacy skills.
• Experience in behavior management strategies and trauma-informed care.
• Certifications: CPR/First Aid preferred; additional certifications in mental health or special education are a plus.
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) preferred but not required.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to drive to various MRDC locations throughout the sate
• Demonstrated success in accomplishing tasks as outlined above
• Must pass criminal background check and fingerprinting
• Must pass all Maryland licensing requirements to include medical evaluation and tuberculosis screening

Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Health Saving Account
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Short Term Disability
• Training & Development

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