JOB TITLE: Universal Preschool (UPK) Specialist

MUSTS: Have a current driver's license in good standing and pass a background check. This position requires driving to meet with individuals and organizations both locally and regionally. Office space is available, remote work is also accepted.

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS: A minimum of a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. A minimum of three years of leadership or management in a relevant field is required. Experience with or an in-depth understanding of early childhood systems work is highly desirable. Bi-lingual Spanish. Comprehensive knowledge of the local Huerfano and Las Animas community and culture. Ability to outreach to licensed childcare sites to develop and enhance relationships. Knowledgeable of integrated systems and/or systems change. Expertise with early childhood programs or services and knowledge of community resources Ability to work with diverse individuals and agencies. Promote consensus among diverse opinions. Able to balance multiple priorities, various goals, and needs. Excellent written and oral communication skills. Knowledge of best practices in ECE classroom settings, including environment, teacher/student interaction, social/emotional best practices. Function and work effectively both independently and as part of a team. Ability to plan and complete projects within designated timeframes. Available to work flexible hours (occasional evening and weekends). Ability to manage conflict constructively and apply critical thinking skills to develop solutions for unanticipated issues and challenges. Must be proficient in a Windows and web-based technology environment. Ability to maintain strict confidentiality regarding work performed. Ability to collect required data and report

DUTIES: Support the leadership of HuLA and LAHCDHD by leading implementation of HuLA Local Coordinating Organization (LCO) Community Plan, engaging stakeholders, providers, and families in the process, as indicated in the plan. Guide the development and implementation of scopes of work including, but not limited to responsibilities and duties related to the Local Coordinating Organization (LCO )and Universal Pre-K (UPK)implementation, and systems building related to the areas of learning and development, health and well-being, as well as family support and education. Acts as the liaison between the Colorado Department of Early Childhood and the local community on the rollout of the UPK application process including ensuring assistance to families in applying for early childhood and family support programs across a mixed delivery system and monitoring the initial rollout of the application system. Attends meetings and shares information in a timely and accurate manner. Support the development of a unified community plan for the successful rollout of Universal Preschool. Leverage established strategic plans and community plans to support expansion of longer-term birth to five goals for delivery of comprehensive early childhood services and supports for Huerfano and Las Animas County. Plan outreach strategies for early childhood services and family support programs on implementing Universal Preschool. Collaborate with community services to implement resources providing holistic services for families, including food, cash assistance, and health care. Develop and regulate Universal Preschool application and enrollment process for both families and Early Childhood Education provider sites in Las Animas and Huerfano Counties, ensuring the greatest practicable degree of family access to early childhood and family support programs. Implements the Huerfano and Las Animas County LCO Community Plan, ensuring alignment with legislation and state determinations. Drives plan revisions as needed, in collaboration with determined stakeholders. Collaborates with UPK providers to determine allocation of spots for children cross the county, guided by the Huerfano and Las Animas Counties LCO Community Plan. Collaborates with other LCO's to provide families access to early childhood and family support programs and services in other communities where appropriate. Works with families to provide the best placements possible for children with special needs and coordinates with providers regarding appropriate placement and service provision. Develop and maintain positive relationships with HuLA Council members and other community professionals through effective coordination, communication, and continuity. Serve as an ambassador, representing HuLA and the LAHCDHD in a positive light to third parties. Maintain confidentiality and family-related information and data. Work in positive, productive manner with executive