] Office of Human Resources - Montgomery County Public Schools

OFFICE OF HUMAN RESOURCES AND DEVELOPMENT → CLASSIFICATION → SCHOOL SYSTEM MEDICAL OFFICER

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School System Medical Officer

MONTGOMERY COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS CLASS DESCRIPTION
OFFICIAL TITLE: Assistant Chief CODE: 0181 SQ/OQ: Not Applicable
WORKING TITLE: School System Medical Officer GRADE: NS MONTHS: 12
SUMMARY DESCRIPTION OF CLASSIFICATION: The School System Medical Officer (SSMO), under the direction of the superintendent of schools, leads the school system in matters related to the health of students, staff and families within Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS). The SSMO is responsible for overseeing and facilitating proactive, preventative measures in safeguarding MCPS students' health and overall medical well-being of the MCPS community members and their families. The SSMO serves as the district's subject matter expert and advisor, particularly as it pertains to the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health and well-being, as well as other medical concerns that may arise. Works closely with Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), community partners, medical professionals and other pertinent organizations to keep abreast of health metrics, trends, and concerns and quickly and effectively addresses medical issues through independent research, collaboration with community partners and swift execution of appropriate measures, including securing necessary medical supplies, funds, and other assistance, as needed. Develops policies and guidelines based on direction from national, state and local health officials. Assesses, identifies and reports the districts ongoing health needs, recommends strategies, and launches new initiatives to address the medical needs and health-related concerns that may arise and impact the MCPS community.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATION STANDARDS
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Thorough knowledge of standard principles, ethics and best practices within the medical field and/or pertaining to public health matters; proven ability to address health crises by implementing effective measures; highly skilled in making recommendations, decisions and taking decisive action during health crises and/or in a high stress environment. Proven ability to obtain up-to-date medical and health-related information, data, and related information in order to present, advise and recommend effective measures, resulting in successful mitigation of health-related emergencies. Ability to obtain accurate data, interpret and make judgments and recommendations based on data collected. Demonstrated leadership and supervisory skills. Demonstrated ability to lead communities during a health crisis or notable medical challenges. Broad knowledge of children's health. Proven ability to execute programs/initiatives effectively and produce results. Significant skill in directing the work of others and resolving complex problems. Excellent conceptual, analytical, problem solving, organizational, and leadership skills. Exceptional oral and written communication skills and a proven track record of working collaboratively with medical/health organizations, professionals and community partners. Demonstrated knowledge of diverse communities and challenges relative to access to healthcare and other limitations.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE: A Master's degree from an accredited college or university in relevant field, such as public health, health services research, children's health. Doctorate in medicine preferred. Minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience leading organization(s) in health initiatives, healthcare, and/or public health. Experience in communications preferred.
CERTIFICATE AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS: None
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: (Special requirements such as lifting heavy objects and frequent climbing.) None
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: (Frequent overtime or night work required, etc.) Requires the ability to work long hours and manage multiple projects with tight deadlines. Will be required to present to Board members during evening meetings.
OVERTIME ELIGIBLE: No

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Oversees, monitors, and facilitates health related projects, initiatives and measures.

Leads the district through medical crises or challenging circumstances and recommends an appropriate course of action.

Serves as liaison to the Board, MCPS community, community partners and other stakeholders in all health/medical matters impacting the district.

Proactively builds relationships and maintains communications with partners, organizations and professionals comprising the public health network in Montgomery County.

Leads and facilitates ongoing efforts to strengthen the coordination between MCPS and Montgomery County health officials in disease prevention and health promotion efforts.

Engages in ongoing collaborative efforts with DHHS and other partner organizations to address medical challenges pertaining to MCPS.

Explicitly connects with and communicates the perspectives and experiences of health professionals serving in schools in order to inform and facilitate a collaborative approach for both the school system and the county health system.

Engages professionals in the county's behavioral health system and provides MCPS leaders and school administrators with guidance, support and resources that are needed for students with behavioral and social emotional health needs.

Proactively researches, obtains and communicates with the superintendent about health metrics, potential medical risks, issues and challenges that are impacting or may impact the MCPS community.

Creates reports based on current data and pertinent medical issues and regularly communicates with the superintendent and MCPS leadership.

Collaborates with the Department of Communications regarding public health messages, press releases and other communications to the public.

Presents medical and health related information to the Board and the MCPS community as directed by the superintendent.

Leads ongoing efforts on preventive measures and ensures preparedness of the district to address medical challenges, particularly as it relates to COVID-19.

Stays abreast of health-related data, potential risks and hazards that may impact MCPS and regularly reports this information to the superintendent, along with viable recommendations and plans that are collaboratively formulated with local medical professionals, community partners and health organizations as appropriate.

Class Established: 11/2021
Date(s) Revised: 11/2024
Last Reviewed:

This description may be changed at any time.