EHS CHILD CARE PARTNERSHIP SPECIALIST - Mesa County at CIG

About Early Learning Ventures:
Early Learning Ventures (ELV) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to high-quality Early Care and Education (ECE). Through an innovative shared services model, ELV streamlines business functions for child care providers, making it easier to manage financially stable, high-quality businesses. By partnering with various organizations and utilizing an online, cost-effective platform, ELV supports child care providers in strengthening their businesses, saving time and money, and providing quality care to more children.

With an Early Head Start-Child Care Partnerships (EHS-CCP) grant, ELV and its collaborators deliver top-tier, comprehensive early childhood services to eligible children in high-need, low-capacity communities across six counties in Colorado. ELV’s shared services model enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery, ultimately supporting the development of infants and toddlers.

Position Summary:
The Child Care Partnership Specialist is responsible for supporting Child Care Partners in implementing comprehensive Early Head Start (EHS) services. This role involves working directly with site leadership, teachers, and families to ensure high-quality care and education for infants and toddlers. The Specialist will guide partners in adhering to federal Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS) and work collaboratively with ELV’s service delivery team to maximize resources and impact.

Key Responsibilities:

• Maintain a strong understanding of Head Start Program Performance Standards Part 1302 and other relevant regulations.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for 2-4 assigned Child Care Partners, guiding site-specific implementation of EHS services.
• Facilitate continuous improvement processes with Child Care Partner leaders to ensure compliance with HSPPS.
• Implement professional development programs for teachers and directors, including training, coaching, and credentialing coordination.
• Provide Practice-Based Coaching for EHS teachers to support evidence-based curriculum implementation, authentic assessment practices, and classroom observations.
• Collaborate with Child Care Partners to offer comprehensive family engagement programs aligned with HSPPS and the Parent, Family, and Community Engagement Framework.
• Conduct processes related to the Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment, and Attendance (ERSEA) system in accordance with HSPPS and program policies.
• Represent ELV positively in the local community, building relationships with other agencies and sharing resources with programs and families.
• Support the implementation of comprehensive services, including coordinating health screenings with community service providers.
• Utilize ELV’s Alliance CORE data management system to document and monitor program data, supporting continuous improvement efforts.
• Ensure Child Care Partners fully utilize the Alliance CORE data management system for record-keeping and compliance purposes.
• Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion principles in all aspects of ELV’s work, in alignment with the organization’s DEI Statement.
• Collaborate with ELV team members to support the delivery of all ELV programming and services.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Educational Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, or working towards degree.
• Child Development, Social Welfare, Public Administration, or a related human services field is preferred.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in human services, with at least 1 year in an early childhood environment.
• Experience working with children and families from diverse backgrounds.
• Knowledge of Early Childhood Development theories and practices.
• Proven leadership ability, including fostering relationships with ECE programs, community partnerships, and parent engagement.
• Understanding of case management, community engagement, continuous improvement, change management, and practice-based coaching.
• Current Colorado Coaching Credential, Family Development Credential (or equivalent), or willingness to obtain these credentials.
• Strong customer service skills and the ability to work effectively with organizations and individuals.
• Comfort with technology and a willingness to learn new systems (including Alliance CORE, remote meetings, Microsoft Office & Teams, etc.).

Travel Requirements:

• Local travel within the county: Up to 60%
• Travel out of the county: Up to 10%
• Valid Driver’s License required
• Reliable transportation required