Child Start jobs in Wichita, KS

Child Start, Inc. is currently seeking a Mental Health/Disability Specialist to join our team. As a Mental Health/Disability Specialist, you will collaborate with classroom staff in identifying children in need of individualized developmental and behavioral services. You will recommend and demonstrate strategies to help children adapt and succeed in the classroom and at home. Additionally, you will refer children for additional evaluation by partner agencies for Part B and Part C services and mental health consultation. You will document and track screenings, individualized services, and referrals in our child-tracking software. In this role, you will provide direct support to children and families as needed through Program Intervention Plans. You will also work with our Mental Health and Disabilities Coordinator to recommend referrals to partner agencies and provide assistance with Individual Education Plans (IEP) or Individual Family Service Plans (IFSP). Observe children in classrooms and home settings to help classroom staff identify children with developmental and behavioral needs; attend month Multidisciplinary Case Reviews Recommend strategies to help children with identified concerns adapts more successfully to classroom environment; collaborate with Teachers and Coaches to develop Program Intervention Plans (PIP) and Behavior Safety Plans (BSP) to provide direct support for children; collaborate with Site Supervisor to lead PIP and BSP meeting with parents and classroom staff; demonstrate and mentor teachers in using these strategies Support classroom staff in identifying and implementing IEP/IFSP recommendations Work with contracted Mental health Consultants on-site to implement social-emotional and behavioral recommendations Monitor required developmental and behavioral screenings; train and support classroom staff in using screening tools and complete screenings in a timely manner as defined by HS performance standards Identify potential concerns from screenings; initiate referral to CAET for review and recommendations; assist classroom staff in completing paperwork for referrals for developmental/speech evaluations and mental consultation Support staff in communicating with parents the results of children's developmental and behavioral screenings and any concerns that are identified; assist parents in communicating their concerns for their children with site staff; when appropriate attend home visits with Family Services Staff and/or Teacher to observe children and provide support to families Encourage families to pursue referrals for developmental/speech evaluation and services as well as mental/behavioral health consultation and services; monitor progress of referrals; link parents to community support services as needed Serve as a collaborative team member with the entire MHDB team; share duties with team members such as monitoring health checklist for MHDB requirements and attending Health Literacy events Take direction and supervision from assigned Mental Health & Disability Coordinator while recognizing responsibility to the assigned Site Supervisor(s) for helping the entire center(s) achieve success with children in attendance. Requirements Bachelor's Degree (B.S./B.A.) in early childhood education, social work, or related degree. If education does not include at least 9 hours of Early Childhood coursework, must commit to obtaining that additional education. An Associate's Degree will be considered with five years of relevant experience and an educational plan to attain a Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field. Requires 3 years experience in either Early Childhood Education or in the field of childhood Mental Health and Disabilities working with children with IEPs/IFSPs, or Behavioral Plans. Ability to build rapport with children, families and staff and to work effectively as part of a team. Knowledge of and sensitivity to cultural differences. Ability to maintain a calm, professional demeanor during stressful and sensitive situations. Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries. Ability to prioritize workload while being flexible to emergent/unplanned needs and situations. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Computer literacy. Ability to maintain regular on-time attendance. Employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 30 pounds for various classroom and event needs. Benefits Child Start's Mental Health/Disability Specialist position is $18.13 per hour, 40 hours per week, 52 weeks per year. Child Start offers competitive salary and benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision plans, company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage, 403(b) retirement plan, 9 paid holidays each year, and much more! Must have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship. In compliance with KDHE requirements, Child Start will request proof of measles (MMR) vaccination or documented immunity during the employment process. This is not a remote position, must be able to commute daily to Wichita, KS.

Recruits and retains new family child care providers. Researches, develops and presents professional development events. Consults with centers, providers, preschools and parents regarding their special concerns. Supports membership and service goals of the Child Care Resource & Referral Program (CCR&R). Researches, develops and presents professional development events. Answers questions via phone, internet and in person regarding child care, child development and curriculum concerns. Supports membership and service goals of the Child Care Resource and Referral program. Advises, upon request, regarding children's developmental levels and/or behaviors. Offers suggestions/solutions to the early childhood care and education provider and parent as necessary. Consults with centers, providers, preschools, and parents regarding their special concerns. Requirements Minimum of Associate Degree (A.A. or A.S.) in Child Development or Early Childhood Education or equivalent. Bachelor's degree preferred. Working Knowledge of Microsoft applications. Knowledge of child care required. Minimum of three years' experience in providing direct care for infants and/or toddlers or children ages two to eight in a group setting. Minimum of one-year experience providing training to adult audiences. Participates in communication/coordination meetings and trainings. Ability to work with a diverse client population. Requires good interpersonal, communication, and teamwork skills. Holds a valid driver's license. Ability to complete projects in a timely manner and to multi-task. Provide technical assistance to child care programs specific to any financial requirements of the grants program, with a focus on maintaining accurate records. Proficient using Microsoft Word, Excel, including creating and editing documents, and spreadsheets. Complies a variety of reports and data information with a high degree of accuracy to support compiling and synthesizing reports. Participates in all Child Care Aware of Kansas orientation, communication/coordination meetings and trainings. Benefits Child Start's Early Childhood Specialist is $17.40/hour. Child Start offers competitive salary and benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision plans, company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage, 403(b) retirement plan, 9 paid holidays each year, and much more! Must have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship. In compliance with KDHE requirements, Child Start will request proof of measles (MMR) vaccination or documented immunity during the employment process. Must be able to commute daily to Wichita, KS.

Job Description As a Child Start Education Supervisor, you will foster the school readiness of children in Child Start's Head Start and Early Head Start programs by offering technical assistance, mentoring, and training to both staff and the agency. You will ensure the delivery of integrated, culturally responsive services in child development, disabilities, and mental health. This approach will support learning environments that: a) enhance children's cognitive, social, and emotional growth, and b) facilitate their development in language, literacy, mathematics, science, social-emotional skills, creative arts, physical development, and learning approaches. Join our team and become a catalyst for educational excellence! Provide constructive feedback to service area managers to assist in the strategic program planning processes, including establishing program calendar, program goals, annual HS/EHS applications (and other funding opportunities, as they arise), PIR data completion, and program self-assessment. Provide accurate, thorough data-driven reports to service area managers in a manner that embraces improvement. Demonstrate commitment to mission, values, and policies in the performance of daily routines. Maintain a thorough knowledge and understanding of all aspects of the Head Start Performance Standards and related regulations for Early Childhood Services and how to monitor and implement them. Steps in to assist classrooms in the absence of teaching staff. Ensure implementation of child safety and active supervision strategies that guarantee children are never alone including the positioning of staff and zoning, scanning and counting children, listening to children, anticipating children's behavior and engaging and redirecting children using developmentally appropriate practices. Help assess classroom and program needs and assists with planning strategies for system/process improvement and/or development in the areas of early childhood education, disabilities, and mental health. Conduct regular classroom visits for the purpose of monitoring educational program services, observe classroom activities and provide on-site support for continuous quality improvement for center staff, in accordance with program schedules of monitoring visits. Supervise and monitor classroom record-keeping, including assessments, home visits, conferences, and child referral and individualization documentation. Monitor and ensure the following services are completed, documented, and are of the highest standard possible in accordance with Head Start regulations, state licensing requirements, and program goals. Requirements Associates Degree in Education or Child Development, Bachelor's degree preferred. Minimum of 3 years in early education, child care or related direct service experience with children and families preferred Prior relevant work experience with low income and diverse populations in a community or other relevant setting preferred. Able to carry a Director's license. Strong theoretical background in early childhood education. Ability to communicate positively with staff, children, families and community members with varying cultural, educational, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to handle stressful and sensitive situations in a professional manner. Resourceful and analytical; able to work independently and meet deadlines. Strong organizational, interpersonal & communication skills. Benefits Child Start offers competitive salary and benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision plans, company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage, 403(b) retirement plan, 9 paid holidays each year, and much more! Must have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship. In compliance with KDHE requirements, Child Start will request proof of measles (MMR) vaccination or documented immunity during the employment process. Must be able to commute daily to Wichita, KS.

Job Description Child Start, Inc., a leading provider of early childhood education and family support services, is seeking a dedicated and experienced Site Supervisor to oversee the operations of our Head Start center in Wichita, Kansas. As the Site Supervisor, you will be responsible for leading a team of passionate staff members and ensuring the delivery of high-quality comprehensive services to children aged 0-5 years. With a strong commitment to Head Start Performance Standards and Kansas Child Care Licensing regulations, you will play a vital role in maintaining compliance and providing a nurturing and engaging environment for children and families. The ideal candidate will be a seasoned early childhood professional with proven leadership experience in a Head Start or other early childhood education program. We are looking for someone who is passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families, and who can effectively collaborate with a diverse team of professionals. If you are seeking a rewarding opportunity to lead and inspire a team while positively impacting the lives of young children, we invite you to apply for the Site Supervisor position at Child Start, Inc. in Wichita, KS. Requirements Bachelor's Degree in Child Development, Early Childhood Education, Management, Human Services, or a related field. Must meet KDHE Kansas Program Director's Approval Requirements. Minimum of 2 years of experience in a Head Start or other early childhood education program. Proven leadership experience, preferably with at least 1 year of supervising staff. Strong knowledge of Head Start Performance Standards and Kansas Child Care Licensing regulations. Ability to effectively gather, analyze, and utilize data. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to lift and move up to 30 pounds regularly. Benefits Child Start's Site Supervisor is $24.32 to $28.20 per hour, 40 hours per week and 52 weeks per year. Child Start offers competitive salary and benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision plans, company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage, 403(b) retirement plan, 9 paid holidays each year, and much more! Must have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship. In compliance with KDHE requirements, Child Start will request proof of measles (MMR) vaccination or documented immunity during the employment process. Must be able to commute daily to Wichita, KS.

Job Description Would you like to impact the lives of children and families by helping to support teachers? Are you good at recognizing and high lighting strengths in others? As a coach, these qualities alongside helping to grow a teacher's skillset are vastly important. Teachers are the backbone of our program and as a Coach you get to watch them grow and succeed. The coaching team is looking for another candidate to join their qualified team. The candidate should have classroom experience, a bachelor's degree, and a passion for helping others succeed. If this sounds like it might be you and you are wanting to join a team who is employee focused and family friendly apply today. Assess teacher and classroom needs, provide reflection/feedback and set goals/action plans with classroom staff; provide suggestions to teachers completing annual Professional Needs Assessment/Development Plans. Provide constructive feedback and support through modeling, co-teaching, observing and providing resources to classroom staff; work collaboratively in classrooms alongside teachers to strengthen relationships and take advantage of teachable moments in the classroom environment. Demonstrate positive approaches to classroom challenges, incorporating both child assessment data and staff input toward solutions. Utilize active listening and reflective practices to support and guide teachers through challenges that arise in working with children and their families. Provide hands-on modeling and guidance for classroom staff following new training to assist in the application of newly learned skills. Develop and maintain positive relationships with teachers to support staff growth through the mentoring process. Provide individualized training, support and guidance to teachers after classroom monitoring visits by Education Managers. Conduct classroom observations and serve as a role model for education staff. Serve as a resource to improve the quality of classroom instruction and child outcomes. Monitor lesson plans to ensure they meet requirements outlined in Head Start Performance Standards, KDHE guidelines and program policies and procedures. Serve as a member of the center Multidisciplinary Case Review (MCR) Team; assist Site Supervisor to prepare and facilitate the meetings, as requested. Collaborate with mental health and disabilities team to help teachers support children with special needs. Collaborate with the Content Area Expert Team (CAET) to request professional consultation services and effectively support children with special needs. Requirements Bachelor's degree in ECE or related field; Must be or become Director Qualified to meet childcare licensing requirements within 3-6 months of hire. Minimum of three years' teaching experience. Experience working with students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Ability to model positive and healthy character traits and habits, such as organized, consistent and understanding. Ability to work independently as well as in team situations. Requires working knowledge of specialized practices and procedures. Excellent communication skills. Benefits Child Start offers competitive salary and benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision plans, company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage, 403(b) retirement plan, 9 paid holidays each year, and much more! Must have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship. In compliance with KDHE requirements, Child Start will request proof of measles (MMR) vaccination or documented immunity during the employment process. Must be able to commute daily to Wichita, KS.

Job Description As a Child Start Food Server, your responsibilities include preparing and storing food items for nourishing snacks and meals for children at the centers. You are also responsible for maintaining kitchen cleanliness, including refrigerators, ovens, cabinets, and other equipment. Consistently meeting and exceeding Health Department and CACFP guidelines is an ongoing duty of the Food Server. Regular attendance is essential for this position. Maintains and documents hot and cold food at recommended temperatures. Ensures that food is properly stored and labeled. Cleans dishes and kitchen while maintaining health and sanitation requirements. Establishes and follows a plan for a thorough periodic cleaning of cabinets, oven, refrigerator and other equipment. Keeps accurate records of food delivered and menus of meals and snacks served daily and of quantities served daily. Adjusts menus or prepares special meals to meet dietary needs, as directed by EC Manager in coordination with Nutrition Coordinator. Maintains confidentiality of children's information.· Divides food in appropriate amounts for serving each class and delivers to each classroom with serving utensils and table-ware. Makes recommendations to EC Manager regarding appropriate quantities. Notes discrepancies in food delivered by caterer and menu requirements and reports to Nutrition Coordinator. Inventories and requests supplies as needed. Requisition supplies and helps with necessary preparation for children's activities. Suggests possible activities involving food. Posts changes to the menus so families are aware of food substitutions. Assists with Family Activity events Requirements High school diploma or general equivalency education. Requires less than 12 months related experience. The employee must be able to regularly lift and/or move objects or materials up to 30 pounds. Benefits Child Start's Food Server position is $13.80 per hour, 24 hours per week, 52 weeks per year. Child Start offers competitive salary and benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision plans, company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage, 403(b) retirement plan, 9 paid holidays each year, and much more! Must have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship. In compliance with KDHE requirements, Child Start will request proof of measles (MMR) vaccination or documented immunity during the employment process. Must be able to commute daily to Wichita, KS. This is not a remote position.

Tired of not having enough personal and family time due to working weekends, holidays, evenings, on-call rotation and overtime? Does having a stable, flexible and less stressful work environment appeal to you? If so, Let's Talk! Child Start's Head Start program is adding to our team of RN's & LPN's who are using their knowledge of health to support children ages 0-5, low income families and expectant mothers. Child Start's dedicated team of nurses works independently, as well as a group, to conduct hearing and vision screens, provide links to medical and dental providers, and monitor health records to ensure children are staying current with their physicals (KBH/WCC), immunizations, and oral health care. In addition, the team reviews and assess children's health needs to identify health concerns and provides health education to parents and staff. Support children and families in addressing & meeting health requirements (i.e. medical, dental, hearing, vision, growth & development) Reviews enrolling child files to accept children's files for classroom attendance per KDHE licensing standards and Performance Standards. Screens each child file for current health status. Assesses and evaluates child health records regularly throughout the year Monitors and/or completes 45/90 health screenings as defined by Head Start Performance standards for children enrolled in home/center base services. Monitors the administration of medication and documentation of such to individual children post RN training and delegation. Supports Families by educating Families on health (immunizations, physicals, dental, vision, hearing and growth/development are so vital to child's life) and providing Families with appropriate community resources to meet child's health needs. Visits Head Start 0-5 Program families in the home as needed for consultation, information, and/or observation. Completes follow-up home visits for all newborn infants. As delegated or in conjunction with the RN partner, the LPN will conduct health education training for children in the classroom, families and staff. Requests vouchers for examinations/follow-up treatment (in conjunction with Family Services staff efforts or PWP RN) for Nurse Coordinator to process for approval. Support Co-Workers (Nurses, Center staff, MH/DB etc.) by sharing information and knowledge in regards to health/nutrition. In accordance with the Kansas Nurse Practice Act, delegates to appropriate center staff the administration of medication and skilled nursing procedures for individual children as appropriate. Work in collaboration with assigned RN partner in providing health services to assigned sites. RN will train and monitor the LPN's completion of work task to ensure compliance with HS Performance Standards and licensing requirements. LPN will monitor the administration, storage and documentation of the fluoride administered at assigned centers and can train new staff after the RN partner has conducted the first training. Administers first aid or other emergency care as necessary when on site. Provides support to staff who have been in contact with someone who may have a communicable diseases. Promotes community development by sharing information regarding Child Start with community providers. Maintains cooperative working relationships with physicians, dentists and other local health care providers in order to provide optimal healthcare for enrolled children. Requirements LPN License Prefer individuals with a minimum of two years' experience in community health, pediatrics, OB/GYN or school nursing and knowledge of you children and pregnant women. Certified or gain certification to conduct vision and hearing screenings. Maintain BLS/CPR certification every two years Ability to build rapport with children, families and staff and to work effectively as part of a team. Knowledge of and sensitivity to cultural differences. Ability to maintain a calm, professional demeanor during stressful and sensitive situations. Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries. Ability to prioritize workload while being flexible to emergent/unplanned needs and situations. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Computer literacy. Ability to maintain regular on-time attendance Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. The employee must regularly lift and/or move objects or materials up to 30 pounds. Benefits Child Start's LPN position is $24.65 per hour. Child Start offers competitive salary and benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision plans, company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage, 403(b) retirement plan, 9 paid holidays each year, and much more! Must have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship. In compliance with KDHE requirements, Child Start will request proof of measles (MMR) vaccination or documented immunity during the employment process. This is not a remote position, must be able to commute daily to Wichita, KS.

Lead teachers for Early Childhood and Head Start programs are responsible for planning and implementing learning experiences that advance the intellectual, emotional, social, and physical development of children within a safe, healthy learning environment. They encourage the involvement of the families of the children of the program and support the development of relationships between children and their families. Utilizes appropriate language, interactions, and positive discipline. Models Positive behavior. Instructs and supervises children in classroom activities. Implement age appropriate activities that support the Head Start performance standards and the creative curriculum. Implement and model family style eating during meal times. Continuously monitor children to ensure safety at all times, and report child abuse and neglect when necessary. Maintains anecdotal notes, written observations, and other approved forms of documentation for each child. Administers Creative Curriculum, DECA and DIAL-4 screenings; makes referrals as needed. Utilizes curriculum library, trainings, plans, and develops age appropriate activities for lesson plans in conjunction with the assistant teacher Incorporates required activities into lesson plans that support children's development. Prepares activities that support lesson plans. Utilizes process not product instruction with children. Informs parents about daily classroom routines, expectations, policies, field trips, and volunteer opportunities. Communicates with parents about incidents that have been observed and/or recorded on site. As a parent advocate, helps resolve issues or concerns that are raised. Completes all necessary paperwork for classroom activities including meal count sheets, attendance, screenings, parent/teacher conferences, and home visits in a timely manner. Maintains up to date and accurate education folders to include complete incident reports, permission slips. Completes all assessment paperwork, such as Creative Curriculum checklist, and DECA and DIAL-4 screenings, according to specified timelines. Supports volunteers, assistant teachers, and foster grandparents with the learning of classroom requirements. Delegates duties as necessary, and give feedback to facilitate professional growth. Works closely with site manager, assistant manager, and classroom teaching team. Requirements Requires: Associates degree in Early Childhood or related field with 9 credit hours in Early Childhood. One to three years experience teaching children age 3 to 5. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 30 pounds for various classroom and event needs or put a child on a changing table. Prefer: Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field with 9 hours in ECE. Bilingual (Spanish/English) Benefits Child Start's Lead Teacher position starts at $21.89 per hour, depending on education and experience. Child Start offers competitive salary and benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision plans, company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage, 403(b) retirement plan, 9 paid holidays each year, and much more! Must have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship. In compliance with KDHE requirements, Child Start will request proof of measles (MMR) vaccination or documented immunity during the employment process. This is not a remote position, must be able to commute daily to Wichita, KS.

As the Strategic Initiatives Coordinator for Child Start, you will be pivotal in furthering Child Start's mission by creating and implementing strategic marketing, partnership, and event initiatives. This role entails boosting public awareness of our services, nurturing relationships with key stakeholders, and organizing events that promote community engagement and funding opportunities. The ideal candidate will possess a robust background in strategic planning, communications, partnership development, and event management, along with a strong passion for early childhood education. Develop and execute marketing strategies to increase visibility and awareness of Child Start's mission, programs, and impact within the community. Collaborate with the Executive team to create content and campaigns that effectively tell the Child Start story and attract new families, partners, and donors. Build and sustain strategic partnerships with local educational institutions, community organizations, and businesses to support Child Start's initiatives and broaden our impact. Identify potential funding partners and grant opportunities to secure resources for key programs. Plan, coordinate, and execute high-impact events that raise awareness, engage the community, and generate funding for Child Start's programs. These events may include fundraisers, community outreach events, and program showcases. Collaborate with staff and external vendors to ensure seamless event execution, including venue selection, promotion, logistics, and post-event evaluations. Develop reports and presentations to communicate progress, impact, and successes to internal and external stakeholders, including the Executive Director, board members, and funders. Regularly update leadership on the status of partnerships, event outcomes, and marketing performance, providing data-driven recommendations for improvements. Requirements Associate's degree required. Prefers Bachelor's degree Marketing, Communications, Business Administration, Nonprofit Management, or equivalent experience in a similar role. 2 years of experience in strategic planning, marketing, partnership development, or event management, preferably in a nonprofit or early childhood setting. Requires experience producing well-written and well-designed original content. Requires excellent written and verbal communication skills and strong graphic design sense. Requires experience recruiting/managing volunteers, including ability to clearly define, communicate, and delegate tasks. Requires strong organizational skills and acute attention to detail. Requires ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously with accuracy. Requires flexibility, problem-solving, and the ability to adapt quickly; must be a self-starter. Requires familiarity and comfort with using social media and traditional media. Requires computer literacy and familiarity with graphic design software. Requires a passion for early childhood education and a commitment to Child Start's mission. Requires ability to lead and influence cross-functional teams, manage multiple projects, and drive results. Requires exceptional skills in developing and nurturing partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders. Requires strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines. Requires Analytical Thinking: Ability to use data and metrics to inform decision-making and optimize initiatives. Benefits The starting hourly wage for the Strategic Initiatives Coordinator at Child Start is $19.70, which may vary based on education and experience. Child Start offers competitive salary and benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision plans, company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage, 403(b) retirement plan, 9 paid holidays each year, and much more! Must have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship. This is not a remote position, must be able to commute daily to Wichita, KS.

Job Description Child Start, Inc. is in search of a dedicated, experienced Head Start Program Director to lead our Head Start program serving children from birth to five years of age. The Head Start Program Director is responsible for providing strategic coordination and leadership across all service areas of the Head Start 0-5 program, ensuring the delivery of high-quality services that align with Performance Standards. This role involves close collaboration with the Executive Team and Program Area Managers to foster teamwork, leverage data for continuous improvement, and ensure adherence to federal, state, and local performance standards. The HS Program Director assists program area managers by monitoring key outcomes and indicators, as well as facilitating effective systems, policies, and processes that support the agency's mission and objectives. In partnership with the Director of Finance, the HS Program Director manages an operating budget exceeding $12 million, oversees contracts for program services and facilities, and works in conjunction with other Child Start programs and community initiatives to advance Child Start's goals. Coordinate across service areas (education, health, family services, data quality, training, enrollment, site operations) to ensure alignment, compliance, efficiency. Monitor data: enrollment, attendance, eligibility, performance standards, school readiness goals, outcomes. Use data to inform program improvement. Ensure compliance with federal/state regulations (Office of Head Start Performance Standards, licensing, contracts) and agency policies. Lead in the design, development, execution, evaluation, promotion and reporting aspects of the program's services to families, children, the community and other partners. Work with Finance & Accountability Director to establish the program's budgets, deploying resources to address needs and resolve issues. Maintain a clear understanding of program budget through monthly review; anticipate and adapt budget to meet developing needs; oversee approval of program expenses. Consistently reinforce staff and stakeholder commitment to achieving the full federal share required by Head Start. Regularly convey budget and program information and outcomes to the Head Start Staff, Board of Directors, Policy Council and Regional Office. Assist with budgeting/resource allocation for the program (or portions thereof) and tracking of key indicators. Responsible for identification, writing, reporting, and managing grants. Requirements Bachelor's degree in Education, Business, Public Administration, Social Work, or related field. Master's degree preferred. Minimum of five years of experience in early childhood education programming, with at least two years in a supervisory or leadership role. Thorough understanding of the Head Start/Early Head Start program model; regulations and standards in early child development; teaching strategies; and the critical contributing components of a high quality-learning environment for infants and toddlers, as well as preschoolers. Experience in managing organizational change, program development and design, and budget management. Previous experience managing $10+ million budget preferred. Requires a high level of personal integrity and ethics. Requires a high level of problem solving, organization skills, and must be a self-starter. Requires good interpersonal, communication, and teamwork skills. Requires a high level of confidentiality and flexibility. Requires excellent verbal and written communication skills Highly computer literate with proficiency in MS Office and related business and communication tools. Makes timely and appropriate management decisions Develops and implement procedures and controls to promote communication and effective information flow within the organization, enabling program goals to be achieved efficiently. Ensures all program activities are carried out in compliance with local, state and federal regulations and laws pertaining to programmatic operations. Benefits Child Start offers competitive salary and benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision plans, company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage, 403(b) retirement plan, 9 paid holidays each year, and much more! Must have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship. In compliance with KDHE requirements, Child Start will request proof of measles (MMR) vaccination or documented immunity during the employment process. Must be able to commute daily to Wichita, KS.

Job Description Support providing a warm, safe, constructive and non-threatening environment with age-appropriate activities for Head Start 0-5 children. Assist the teacher with necessary classroom record-keeping tasks. Assist with food service as assigned. Supports staff during staff breaks and in the absence of the classroom teacher. Observes children upon arrival; reports any unusual circumstances (bruises, inappropriate dress, signs of illness, etc.) and document in writing to EC Manager. Helps prepare classroom materials for scheduled activities. Support screenings that are completed in first 45 days and as scheduled in developmental, speech and behavior. Support infants feeding on demand with food/bottles. Holds infants while feeding. Take lead to set up for meals, snacks. Supervise lunches, snacks and breakfasts. Assist with clean up following meals. Eat with children in a family-style setting if age appropriate. Assist with children's attendance & completes CACFP paperwork. Inventories food and requests supplies as needed. Complete Summer food services for children. Assists with fluoride administration and record which children have received fluoride. Follows CACFP, KDHE licensing standard and Head Start Performance Standards at all times. Support and encourage families to be actively involved in the program and assist them in finding ways to volunteer. Supports coordination of progress of each child to share with parents and assist with developing an individual plan together for their child. Supports home visits and/or school conferences. Requirements Requires: High School Diploma or equivalent, willing to begin an education plan to obtain a CDA credential or an Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education. A love for teaching and the ability to build a trusting relationship with students, teachers and parents. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 30 pounds for various classroom and event needs. Prefer: Child Development Associate (CDA) or Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field. Benefits Child Start's Classroom Aide position is $13.80 per hour. Child Start offers competitive salary and benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision plans, company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage, 403(b) retirement plan, 9 paid holidays each year, and much more! Must have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship. In compliance with KDHE requirements, Child Start will request proof of measles (MMR) vaccination or documented immunity during the employment process. This is not a remote position, must be able to commute daily to Wichita, KS.

As a Child Start Family Advocate, you will support full enrollment and program compliance through recruitment and enrollment activities. Build relationships with families that enable successful needs assessments and goal setting. Develop a comprehensive understanding of services and resources available in the community. Connect families with appropriate services and resources in the community based on family needs and goals through a case management approach. Seek new services and resources to support family needs and goals. Maintain records of children and families. Support center events and record keeping as directed by Early Childhood Manager. Provide services in the family home or the assigned center. Support families during required, requested or mandated meetings. Actively participates in the community outreach and recruitment process. Completes all enrollment requirements for a child entering the Program, and maintains competed waiting list to enroll children in the program immediately when vacancies occur. Calculates and verifies income eligibility on all enrollments. Helps parents make appointments for necessary health care for children. Attends monthly case reviews and helps plan services to meet children's social service needs. Follows up with parents and documents conversations in Child Plus about the child/family progress and/or needed services. Communicates with teachers regarding any concerns for the child. Communicates with Family Educators for dually enrolled families to conduct Family Team Meetings (FTM). Assist in identifying and formulating new community partnerships and resources that support family needs and Family Partnership agreement. Develop an aggregate of social services within the community to be shared with families and staff. Empowers and encourages families to make sure of all identified community resources. Works as a team with the Early Childhood Manager, Teachers and additional agency staff. Meet all health requirements of the center . Provide flexible services to families (day, evening). Documents all family services the FA has provided as they occur in Child Plus and keeps Children's files current. Requirements Associate's degree or equivalent in Social Work, Human Services, Family Services, Counseling or related field required. Bachelor's degree preferred. Candidate's with a Family Development Credential are encouraged to apply. One to three years experience with children and families. Office and computer knowledge required. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Demonstrated interpersonal skills preferred and ability to respond effectively in human service situations preferred. Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred. Pre-employment drug screen and background check required. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 30 pounds for various classroom and event needs. Benefits Child Start offers competitive salary and benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision plans, company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage, 403(b) retirement plan, 9 paid holidays each year, and much more! Must have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship. In compliance with KDHE requirements, Child Start will request proof of measles (MMR) vaccination or documented immunity during the employment process. This is not a remote position, must be able to commute daily to Wichita, KS.

Child Start is actively recruiting for multiple openings in our early Head Start classrooms serving children ages 0-3. These are full-time career opportunities for dedicated, early childhood professionals. A typical day working with Child Start in an early childhood classroom may involve: Encourage children to try new learning activities. Assess each child's development initially and update assessments throughout the school year. Review the curriculum continually and write weekly lesson plans that incorporate all areas of child development (social/emotional development, physical and cognitive language development). Requirements Requires: Infant/Toddler Child Development Associate (CDA), (we have scholarships available to help with CDA completion) relevant experience working with infants and toddlers. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 30 pounds for various classroom and event needs. Benefits Child Start's Teacher, Early Head Start position starts at $15.78 - $20.84 per hour, depending on education and/or experience. Child Start offers competitive salary and benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision plans, company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage, 403(b) retirement plan, 9 paid holidays each year, and much more! Apply today for immediate consideration! Must have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship. Must be able to commute daily to El Dorado, KS.

As a Child Start Education Supervisor, you will foster the school readiness of children in Child Start's Head Start and Early Head Start programs by offering technical assistance, mentoring, and training to both staff and the agency. You will ensure the delivery of integrated, culturally responsive services in child development, disabilities, and mental health. This approach will support learning environments that: a) enhance children's cognitive, social, and emotional growth, and b) facilitate their development in language, literacy, mathematics, science, social-emotional skills, creative arts, physical development, and learning approaches. Join our team and become a catalyst for educational excellence! Provide constructive feedback to service area managers to assist in the strategic program planning processes, including establishing program calendar, program goals, annual HS/EHS applications (and other funding opportunities, as they arise), PIR data completion, and program self-assessment. Provide accurate, thorough data-driven reports to service area managers in a manner that embraces improvement. Demonstrate commitment to mission, values, and policies in the performance of daily routines. Maintain a thorough knowledge and understanding of all aspects of the Head Start Performance Standards and related regulations for Early Childhood Services and how to monitor and implement them. Steps in to assist classrooms in the absence of teaching staff. Ensure implementation of child safety and active supervision strategies that guarantee children are never alone including the positioning of staff and zoning, scanning and counting children, listening to children, anticipating children's behavior and engaging and redirecting children using developmentally appropriate practices. Help assess classroom and program needs and assists with planning strategies for system/process improvement and/or development in the areas of early childhood education, disabilities, and mental health. Conduct regular classroom visits for the purpose of monitoring educational program services, observe classroom activities and provide on-site support for continuous quality improvement for center staff, in accordance with program schedules of monitoring visits. Supervise and monitor classroom record-keeping, including assessments, home visits, conferences, and child referral and individualization documentation. Monitor and ensure the following services are completed, documented, and are of the highest standard possible in accordance with Head Start regulations, state licensing requirements, and program goals. Requirements Associates Degree in Education or Child Development, Bachelor's degree preferred. Minimum of 3 years in early education, child care or related direct service experience with children and families preferred Prior relevant work experience with low income and diverse populations in a community or other relevant setting preferred. Able to carry a Director's license. Strong theoretical background in early childhood education. Ability to communicate positively with staff, children, families and community members with varying cultural, educational, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to handle stressful and sensitive situations in a professional manner. Resourceful and analytical; able to work independently and meet deadlines. Strong organizational, interpersonal & communication skills. Benefits Child Start offers competitive salary and benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision plans, company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage, 403(b) retirement plan, 9 paid holidays each year, and much more! Must have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship. In compliance with KDHE requirements, Child Start will request proof of measles (MMR) vaccination or documented immunity during the employment process. Must be able to commute daily to Wichita, KS.

As a Child Start Food Server, your responsibilities include preparing and storing food items for nourishing snacks and meals for children at the centers. You are also responsible for maintaining kitchen cleanliness, including refrigerators, ovens, cabinets, and other equipment. Consistently meeting and exceeding Health Department and CACFP guidelines is an ongoing duty of the Food Server. Regular attendance is essential for this position. Maintains and documents hot and cold food at recommended temperatures. Ensures that food is properly stored and labeled. Cleans dishes and kitchen while maintaining health and sanitation requirements. Establishes and follows a plan for a thorough periodic cleaning of cabinets, oven, refrigerator and other equipment. Keeps accurate records of food delivered and menus of meals and snacks served daily and of quantities served daily. Adjusts menus or prepares special meals to meet dietary needs, as directed by EC Manager in coordination with Nutrition Coordinator. Maintains confidentiality of children's information.· Divides food in appropriate amounts for serving each class and delivers to each classroom with serving utensils and table-ware. Makes recommendations to EC Manager regarding appropriate quantities. Notes discrepancies in food delivered by caterer and menu requirements and reports to Nutrition Coordinator. Inventories and requests supplies as needed. Requisition supplies and helps with necessary preparation for children's activities. Suggests possible activities involving food. Posts changes to the menus so families are aware of food substitutions. Assists with Family Activity events Requirements High school diploma or general equivalency education. Requires less than 12 months related experience. The employee must be able to regularly lift and/or move objects or materials up to 30 pounds. Benefits Child Start's Food Server position is $13.80 per hour, 24 hours per week, 52 weeks per year. Child Start offers competitive salary and benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision plans, company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage, 403(b) retirement plan, 9 paid holidays each year, and much more! Must have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship. In compliance with KDHE requirements, Child Start will request proof of measles (MMR) vaccination or documented immunity during the employment process. Must be able to commute daily to Wichita, KS. This is not a remote position.

Job Description Teacher Assistants for Early Childhood and Head Start programs assist Lead Teachers in planning and implementing learning experiences that advance the intellectual, emotional, social, and physical development of children within a safe, healthy learning environment. They encourage the involvement of the families of the children of the program and support the development of relationship between children and their families. Utilizes appropriate language, interactions, and positive discipline. Models Positive behavior. Assists in instructing and supervising children in classroom activities. Assists with implementation age appropriate activities that support the Head Start performance standards and the creative curriculum. Implements and models family style eating during meal times. Continuously monitors children to ensure safety at all times, and report child abuse and neglect when necessary. Assists with administrating screenings, creative curriculum and DECA and DIAL-4 screening. Assists in utilizing curriculum library, trainings, plan, and develop age appropriate activities for lesson plans in conjunction with the lead teacher. Assists the lead teacher in incorporating required activities into lesson plans that support children's development. Assists in open communication with parents by scheduling and conducting parent/teacher conferences and home visits. Assists as a parent advocate, help resolve issues or concerns that are raised. Assists to inform parents about daily classroom routines, expectations, policies, field trips, and volunteer opportunities. Assists to communicate with parents about incidents that have been observed and/or recorded on site. Assists to complete all necessary paperwork for classroom activities including meal count sheets, attendance, screenings, parent/teacher conferences, and home visits in a timely manner. Assists to maintain up to date and accurate education folders to include complete incident reports, permission slips. Assists with maintaining accurate and up to date portfolios. Assists with classroom supply lists and inventory. Assists with completion of assessment paperwork, such as creative curriculum checklist, and DECA and DIAL-4 screenings, according to specified timelines. Work closely with EC Manager, Assistant EC Manager, and classroom teaching team. Works with Senior Manager and other content area specialists. Actively participates in meetings which may include management, staff meetings, as requested. Requirements Requires: Current CDA in Early Childhood ages 3-5. One year pre-school experience with children ages 3-5. Computer skills helpful. A love for teaching and the ability to build a trusting relationship with students, teachers and parents. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 30 pounds for various classroom and event needs. Prefer: Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field with 9 hours in ECE. Bilingual (Spanish/English) Benefits Child Start's Teacher Assistant position starts at $16.30 per hour, depending on education and experience. Child Start offers competitive salary and benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision plans, company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage, 403(b) retirement plan, 9 paid holidays each year, and much more! Must have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship. In compliance with KDHE requirements, Child Start will request proof of measles (MMR) vaccination or documented immunity during the employment process. Must be able to commute daily to El Dorado, KS.

Job Description As the Strategic Initiatives Coordinator for Child Start, you will be pivotal in furthering Child Start's mission by creating and implementing strategic marketing, partnership, and event initiatives. This role entails boosting public awareness of our services, nurturing relationships with key stakeholders, and organizing events that promote community engagement and funding opportunities. The ideal candidate will possess a robust background in strategic planning, communications, partnership development, and event management, along with a strong passion for early childhood education. Develop and execute marketing strategies to increase visibility and awareness of Child Start's mission, programs, and impact within the community. Collaborate with the Executive team to create content and campaigns that effectively tell the Child Start story and attract new families, partners, and donors. Build and sustain strategic partnerships with local educational institutions, community organizations, and businesses to support Child Start's initiatives and broaden our impact. Identify potential funding partners and grant opportunities to secure resources for key programs. Plan, coordinate, and execute high-impact events that raise awareness, engage the community, and generate funding for Child Start's programs. These events may include fundraisers, community outreach events, and program showcases. Collaborate with staff and external vendors to ensure seamless event execution, including venue selection, promotion, logistics, and post-event evaluations. Develop reports and presentations to communicate progress, impact, and successes to internal and external stakeholders, including the Executive Director, board members, and funders. Regularly update leadership on the status of partnerships, event outcomes, and marketing performance, providing data-driven recommendations for improvements. Requirements Associate's degree required. Prefers Bachelor's degree Marketing, Communications, Business Administration, Nonprofit Management, or equivalent experience in a similar role. 2 years of experience in strategic planning, marketing, partnership development, or event management, preferably in a nonprofit or early childhood setting. Requires experience producing well-written and well-designed original content. Requires excellent written and verbal communication skills and strong graphic design sense. Requires experience recruiting/managing volunteers, including ability to clearly define, communicate, and delegate tasks. Requires strong organizational skills and acute attention to detail. Requires ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously with accuracy. Requires flexibility, problem-solving, and the ability to adapt quickly; must be a self-starter. Requires familiarity and comfort with using social media and traditional media. Requires computer literacy and familiarity with graphic design software. Requires a passion for early childhood education and a commitment to Child Start's mission. Requires ability to lead and influence cross-functional teams, manage multiple projects, and drive results. Requires exceptional skills in developing and nurturing partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders. Requires strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines. Requires Analytical Thinking: Ability to use data and metrics to inform decision-making and optimize initiatives. Benefits The starting hourly wage for the Strategic Initiatives Coordinator at Child Start is $19.70, which may vary based on education and experience. Child Start offers competitive salary and benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision plans, company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage, 403(b) retirement plan, 9 paid holidays each year, and much more! Must have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship. This is not a remote position, must be able to commute daily to Wichita, KS.

Job Description Child Start, Inc. is currently seeking a Mental Health/Disability Specialist to join our team. As a Mental Health/Disability Specialist, you will collaborate with classroom staff in identifying children in need of individualized developmental and behavioral services. You will recommend and demonstrate strategies to help children adapt and succeed in the classroom and at home. Additionally, you will refer children for additional evaluation by partner agencies for Part B and Part C services and mental health consultation. You will document and track screenings, individualized services, and referrals in our child-tracking software. In this role, you will provide direct support to children and families as needed through Program Intervention Plans. You will also work with our Mental Health and Disabilities Coordinator to recommend referrals to partner agencies and provide assistance with Individual Education Plans (IEP) or Individual Family Service Plans (IFSP). Observe children in classrooms and home settings to help classroom staff identify children with developmental and behavioral needs; attend month Multidisciplinary Case Reviews Recommend strategies to help children with identified concerns adapts more successfully to classroom environment; collaborate with Teachers and Coaches to develop Program Intervention Plans (PIP) and Behavior Safety Plans (BSP) to provide direct support for children; collaborate with Site Supervisor to lead PIP and BSP meeting with parents and classroom staff; demonstrate and mentor teachers in using these strategies Support classroom staff in identifying and implementing IEP/IFSP recommendations Work with contracted Mental health Consultants on-site to implement social-emotional and behavioral recommendations Monitor required developmental and behavioral screenings; train and support classroom staff in using screening tools and complete screenings in a timely manner as defined by HS performance standards Identify potential concerns from screenings; initiate referral to CAET for review and recommendations; assist classroom staff in completing paperwork for referrals for developmental/speech evaluations and mental consultation Support staff in communicating with parents the results of children's developmental and behavioral screenings and any concerns that are identified; assist parents in communicating their concerns for their children with site staff; when appropriate attend home visits with Family Services Staff and/or Teacher to observe children and provide support to families Encourage families to pursue referrals for developmental/speech evaluation and services as well as mental/behavioral health consultation and services; monitor progress of referrals; link parents to community support services as needed Serve as a collaborative team member with the entire MHDB team; share duties with team members such as monitoring health checklist for MHDB requirements and attending Health Literacy events Take direction and supervision from assigned Mental Health & Disability Coordinator while recognizing responsibility to the assigned Site Supervisor(s) for helping the entire center(s) achieve success with children in attendance. Requirements Bachelor's Degree (B.S./B.A.) in early childhood education, social work, or related degree. If education does not include at least 9 hours of Early Childhood coursework, must commit to obtaining that additional education. An Associate's Degree will be considered with five years of relevant experience and an educational plan to attain a Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field. Requires 3 years experience in either Early Childhood Education or in the field of childhood Mental Health and Disabilities working with children with IEPs/IFSPs, or Behavioral Plans. Ability to build rapport with children, families and staff and to work effectively as part of a team. Knowledge of and sensitivity to cultural differences. Ability to maintain a calm, professional demeanor during stressful and sensitive situations. Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries. Ability to prioritize workload while being flexible to emergent/unplanned needs and situations. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Computer literacy. Ability to maintain regular on-time attendance. Employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 30 pounds for various classroom and event needs. Benefits Child Start's Mental Health/Disability Specialist position is $18.13 per hour, 40 hours per week, 52 weeks per year. Child Start offers competitive salary and benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision plans, company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage, 403(b) retirement plan, 9 paid holidays each year, and much more! Must have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship. In compliance with KDHE requirements, Child Start will request proof of measles (MMR) vaccination or documented immunity during the employment process. This is not a remote position, must be able to commute daily to Wichita, KS.

Support providing a warm, safe, constructive and non-threatening environment with age-appropriate activities for Head Start 0-5 children. Assist the teacher with necessary classroom record-keeping tasks. Assist with food service as assigned. *Position in Augusta & El Dorado, KS! Supports staff during staff breaks and in the absence of the classroom teacher. Observes children upon arrival; reports any unusual circumstances (bruises, inappropriate dress, signs of illness, etc.) and document in writing to EC Manager. Helps prepare classroom materials for scheduled activities. Support screenings that are completed in first 45 days and as scheduled in developmental, speech and behavior. Support infants feeding on demand with food/bottles. Holds infants while feeding. Take lead to set up for meals, snacks. Supervise lunches, snacks and breakfasts. Assist with clean up following meals. Eat with children in a family-style setting if age appropriate. Assist with children's attendance & completes CACFP paperwork. Inventories food and requests supplies as needed. Complete Summer food services for children. Assists with fluoride administration and record which children have received fluoride. Follows CACFP, KDHE licensing standard and Head Start Performance Standards at all times. Support and encourage families to be actively involved in the program and assist them in finding ways to volunteer. Supports coordination of progress of each child to share with parents and assist with developing an individual plan together for their child. Supports home visits and/or school conferences. Requirements Requires: High School Diploma or equivalent, willing to begin an education plan to obtain a CDA credential or an Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education. A love for teaching and the ability to build a trusting relationship with students, teachers and parents. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 30 pounds for various classroom and event needs. Prefer: Child Development Associate (CDA) or Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education or related field. Benefits Child Start's Classroom Aide position is $13.80 per hour. Child Start offers competitive salary and benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision plans, company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage, 403(b) retirement plan, 9 paid holidays each year, and much more! Must have legal authorization to work permanently in the United States for any employer without requiring a visa transfer or visa sponsorship. In compliance with KDHE requirements, Child Start will request proof of measles (MMR) vaccination or documented immunity during the employment process. Must be able to commute daily to either Augusta, KS.