Director of Mental and Behavioral Health

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Company: South Portland School Department

Location: Washington, DC 20544

Description:

Position Type:
Administration/Director

Date Posted:
6/18/2024

Location:
District Office
Position Overview: As the Director of Mental and Behavioral Health for our school district of 3000 students, you will lead the development and implementation of culturally appropriate mental health programs with a strong emphasis on family involvement and integration within our multi-tiered systems of supports (MTSS) and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). Your role is crucial in fostering a positive, inclusive, and supportive environment that promotes the mental well-being of our diverse student population.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Develop and oversee a comprehensive mental health framework that aligns with our district's MTSS and PBIS models, integrating mental health supports at all tiers of intervention.
  • Serve as the district administrator for McKinney-Vento eligible students and supports appropriate services and personnel. This work also includes managing state and federal grants to support McKinney Vento students and prevention of homelessness.
  • Collaborate with school administrators, counselors, teachers, and community partners to embed mental health practices within our schools.
  • Lead efforts to engage families and caregivers in mental health promotion and intervention strategies, ensuring their active involvement in student support plans.
  • Provide leadership and supervision to a team of mental health professionals, ensuring effective delivery and adherence to evidence-based practices.
  • Establish protocols for assessment, screening, and intervention processes to identify and address mental health needs across diverse student populations.
  • Advocate for resources and funding to support culturally appropriate mental health programs, staff training, and community partnerships.
  • Facilitate professional development opportunities for staff to enhance cultural competency and implementation fidelity of MTSS/PBIS-aligned mental health practices.
  • Collaborate with external agencies and stakeholders to expand community-based mental health resources and partnerships.
  • Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of mental health programs and interventions, utilizing data to inform continuous improvement efforts.

Qualifications:
  • Master's or Doctoral degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or related field.
  • Licensed health professional (e.g., Nurse, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Psychologist).
  • Extensive experience in developing and implementing MTSS/PBIS-aligned mental health programs within educational settings.
  • Strong understanding of culturally responsive practices and interventions in mental and behavioral health.
  • Previous leadership experience in a school or district-level mental health role preferred.
  • Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills, with a demonstrated ability to engage families and diverse stakeholders.
  • Commitment to equity, inclusion, and social justice in mental health service delivery.
  • Proficiency in data-driven decision-making and program evaluation to inform continuous improvement.

Personal Attributes:
  • Compassionate and empathetic approach to supporting students, families, and staff members.
  • Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.
  • Innovative mindset with a passion for implementing evidence-based practices in culturally diverse environments.
  • Commitment to ongoing professional development and growth in cultural competency and mental health practices.

Benefits:
  • Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
  • Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance and retirement plan.
  • Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
  • Meaningful work contributing to the mental health and academic success of our students within a supportive district community.

Join our team and make a lasting impact on student well-being by championing culturally appropriate mental health practices integrated with our MTSS/PBIS framework. Apply now to be part of our mission-driven district.

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