JOB POSTING

Behavior Support Specialist

Summary:

The Behavior Support Specialist provides specialized behavioral, social-emotional, and instructional support to elementary students with significant behavioral and emotional needs within a behavior intervention program setting. This position works collaboratively with teachers, administrators, related service providers, and families to implement individualized behavior intervention plans, support positive student engagement, and maintain safe, structured learning environments. The paraprofessional utilizes de-escalation strategies, trauma-informed practices, and positive behavioral supports to assist students in developing self-regulation, social skills, and academic success. This role requires advanced skills in behavior management, crisis prevention/intervention, relationship building, and data collection beyond those expected of a traditional classroom paraprofessional position.

Qualifications:

Associate degree preferred (or equivalent college credits)
Specialized behavioral training preferred
Crisis intervention certification required within a set timeframe
Experience in special education or behavioral programming preferred
Three years of successful experience in special education preferred
Strong interpersonal, organizational, and written and oral communication skills
Ability to manage conflict constructively and problem-solve complex student issues
Ability to work collaboratively with administrators, staff, parents and community agencies
Successful completion of required background checks

Experience:

Prior experience working with students with one or all of the following:
- Emotional impairment
- Autism spectrum disorder
- ADHD
- Trauma histories
- Significant behavioral challenges
Experience supporting students during dysregulation or crisis situations
Experience collecting behavioral data and documenting incidents objectively

Skills and Competencies

Strong emotional regulation and calm demeanor under stress
Ability to maintain professional boundaries while building relationships
Consistency in implementing behavioral expectations and interventions
Advanced communication and teamwork skills with teachers, social workers, psychologists, and administrators
Ability to recognize escalation cycles and intervene early
Flexibility and rapid problem-solving skills
Strong observational skills

Responsibilities:

Collaborate with administration, general education staff, and IEP teams to address student needs.
Support problem-solving for complex cases involving behavioral and social-emotional needs.
Assist in developing procedures, protocols, and service delivery models for the behavior intervention program.
Implement individualized behavior plans with fidelity
Track behavior data daily
Participate in team meetings
Support full reintegration into general education programming
Assist with sensory regulation and calming strategies
Help teach replacement behaviors and self-regulation skills
Support crisis response and safety procedures

Specialized Training

The candidate will already be trained in or willing to be trained in the following areas:

Training in behavior intervention and de-escalation strategies
Knowledge of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)
Understanding of trauma-informed practices
Training in restorative practices and relationship-based supports
CPI, Safety-Care, Handle With Care, or other approved crisis prevention/intervention certification
Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) and Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) implementation training
Knowledge of reinforcement systems, behavior functions, and antecedent strategies
Practical Functional Assessment (PFA) and Skill-Based Treatment (SBT) training

Reports To: Building Principal

Supervises: No supervisory responsibility

Terms of Employment: 180-day contract

Salary Range: The salary will be commensurate with the successful candidate's education and demonstrated experience to fulfill the position's requirements, including full benefits.

Physical Environment:

Hours to be Worked: Minimum of 7 hours per day

Evaluation: Performance on this job will be evaluated annually as required.

Start Date: August 2026

District Behavior Support Specialist