Overall Responsibility:

Under the supervision of the Director of Education, the Family Education Specialist is responsible for providing information, support, and guidance to families with a child or youth with disabilities. This role encompasses helping families comprehend and traverse a variety of care systems such as educational, healthcare, and training opportunities.

Major Tasks and Responsibilities:

• Provide one-on-one support and problem solving telephonically, virtually, or in person addressing issues related to navigating educational and community services for their child.
• Staff the organization’s phone line during business hours to provide intake and peer support for families.
• Conduct comprehensive intake and assessment of family’s primary concern.
• Provide culturally appropriate information and resources for families.
• Provide information and training to assist parents in understanding their rights and responsibilities in special education and developing self-advocacy skills.
• Will attend school meetings if needed and approved by Director.
• Assist in the development of training materials to help ensure that they are culturally and linguistically appropriate, family friendly, and written at a level most can understand.
• Maintain up-to-date documentation into Salesforce, database.
• Provide monthly reports to Director of Education.
• Maintain cooperative relationships and actions with community partners and colleagues.
• Remain current on all SC and Federal Special Education laws.
• Attend staff meetings.
• Maintain professional and competent written and oral communication with parents/caregivers and professional/providers.
• Perform other relevant duties as required.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in special education, education, early childhood, or social work.
• Master’s preferred.
• Knowledge and experience in special education, understanding of IDEA.
• Knowledge of community resources for children with disability.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize work, maintain attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
• Demonstrated ability to keep timely, accurate records and maintain required data.
• Demonstrated strong computer skills, including significant experience with Microsoft office suite, internet-based programs, email, and database programs.
• The ability to be creative as well as a self-starter and self-motivated.
• Light lifting required.
• Must have a designated space for a home office.
• Personal vehicle for travel.

Note: Parents of a child with a disability are encouraged to apply.