Continuous Quality Improvement Specialist

The Continuous Quality Improvement Specialist assists with ensuring compliance of Easterseals and HS/EHS policies and procedures, service plans, and applicable federal, state, and city regulations. In addition, the Continuous Quality Improvement Specialist provides content area support, oversight, and training in the areas of safe environments, human resource requirements and program design and management.

• Responsible for extensive, regular and ongoing monitoring of program and center documentation to ensure program goals, objectives and compliance with all regulations are achieved.    
• Monitors the implementation of Head Start Performance Standards, DCFS Licensing Standards, and all other related standards through regular ongoing monitoring of tools such as CLASS, ECERS/ITERS, Fidelity Tool, and health and safety checklists.  
• Monitors, tracks, and follows up on a regular basis the continuing education/professional development plans for Head Start/Early Head Start teachers, teacher assistants, and the documented support and assistance provided in attaining goals.
• Monitors and tracks the completion of annual center staff evaluations and supporting documentation.          
• Assists with the development, implementation, and monitoring of systems for active supervision across all content areas to ensure the safety of all children and that no child is ever left alone or unsupervised.

• Works with center and program staff to review transcripts as needed to ensure that center staff meet Head Start and, as applicable, DFSS requirements for their position.
• Monitors and tracks center staff HR files to ensure compliance with Head Start Performance Standards and Head Start Act, DCFS, and, as applicable, DFSS.
• Monitors that all content area data is entered timely and accurately in COPA, Teaching Strategies GOLD, Smart sheets, and DataSay.
• Coordinates monthly roundtables with center and program staff to support continuous quality improvements in all content areas.
• Analyzes data monthly and works with center and program staff to develop support plans to address continuous quality improvement and to make recommendations for training and technical assistance.
• Sets clear expectations, reviews progress, and provides feedback and guidance while ensuring a high level of quality within the child care partner center.
• Works with site teams to determine when higher levels of progressive discipline is warranted.

• Assists in the design and facilitation of a system for ongoing review of COPA, Smart sheets, Teaching Strategies GOLD, Tableau Monitoring Dashboards and the PIR to ensure information is accurate and complete, including monthly tracking and reporting of information.
• Coordinates and ensures the completion and follow up of initial and annual Environmental Health and Safety Assessments at each center within 45 days of the start of program operation or the start of the new program year.
• Assists in the development of support plans and supplemental funding requests to correct any health and safety issues.
• Works with center and program staff to implement a system to ensure compliance with the Head Start Transportation Standards, including bus evacuation drills, pedestrian safety training and lesson plans.
• Monitor classroom health and safety practices, including health postings, first aid kits, medication binders, tooth brushing, and family style meal service.

 Critical Criteria – For all team members:

• Participates in enrollment and recruitment as part of the Head Start/Early Head Start team and ensure that the program is fully enrolled.
• Participates in the implementation of the School Readiness Plan as part of an integrated team.
• Participates in meetings, training and workshops as required.
• All other duties as assigned.