Behavioral Specialist

Job TitleUnder general supervision, is responsible for working with the program's Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) team to implement a program-wide model for social and emotional learning to effect positive behavioral change in students; providing supportive interventions to families, staff and/or students; and complying with Federal, State, county and District policies, regulations and/or procedures. Exercises no supervision. This position is funded by sales tax that has been approved by the citizens of San Antonio for a limited time period. This position, therefore, is subject to at-will employment status, is unclassified, and has no disciplinary appeal rights to the Municipal Civil Service Commission.Work Location Pre-K 4 SA West Center - 1235 W. Old Hwy. 90, San Antonio, Texas 78227Work Schedule 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. ; Monday - FridayEssential Job FunctionsWork collaboratively with SEL (Social and Emotional Learning) team members, teachers, and educational center Directors to engage in program-wide implementation of a high-quality SEL instructional model.Provide ongoing professional development that supports the school plan for high-quality SEL instructional practices and continuous improvement. Models SEL instructional model in a variety of settings, to include conducting small-group and large-group activities and interacting with children at eye-level.Acts as liaison with the public and community for the purpose of supporting individual student development goals and connecting families to resources within the community.Supports programs and services within the SEL school model for the purpose of improved functioning and ensuring program eligibility and compliance with established guidelines.Assists in developing and providing interventions for the purpose of providing a safe and effective educational environment for students with challenging behaviors.Provides hands-on support to children with various developmental needs for at least half of the workday.Assists in developing procedures and training materials for teaching staff for the purpose of enhancing the SEL program model for students and ensuring that program operations are in compliance with established guidelines.Conducts workshops, training, in-service presentations, etc. in classroom management techniques and other topics. Establishes effective and nurturing relationships with students and families.Assists with the planning and delivery of parent workshops and informational sessions.Conduct or participate in workshops, committees, and conferences designed to promote the intellectual, social, and physical welfare of students.Participate in parent conferences, when appropriate, and provide instructional suggestions to parents, as needed.Participates in a variety of professional development trainings to further develop professional skills and to stay current with research and practice.Maintains accurate records and documentation.In the case of an emergency situation, may be required to lift and carry students weighing up to 50 pounds to move students during dangerous situations.Performs related duties and fulfills responsibilities as required.Job RequirementsBachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education, Special Education, and/or related field from an accredited college or university.Three (3) years of teaching experience in a special education and/or early childhood classroom in an accredited program.Valid Class "C" Texas Driver's License.Valid teaching certificate with required endorsements to teach early childhood education from any State's Educator Certification Department and the ability to obtain certification in Texas.Applicant InformationUnless otherwise stated, applicants are permitted to substitute two years of related full-time experience for one year of higher education or one year of related higher education for two years of experience in order to meet the minimum requirements of the job. One year of full-time experience is defined as 30 or more hours worked per week for 12 months. One year of higher education is defined as 30 credit hours completed at an accredited college or university.Applicants selected for employment with the City of San Antonio in this position must receive satisfactory results from pre-employment drug testing and background checks. If required for the position, a physical, motor vehicle record evaluation, and additional background checks may be conducted.Please be advised that if selected for this position, information regarding employment history as it relates to the qualifications of the position will be needed for employment verification. Applicants claiming military service to meet the experience requirement for this position may attach a DD214 to the application.If selected for this position, official transcripts, diplomas, certifications, and licenses must be submitted at the time of processing. Unofficial transcripts and copies of other relevant documents may be attached to the application for consideration in advance.Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesKnowledge of principles and methodologies of effective social and emotional learning practices.Knowledge of special education for young children.Knowledge of standard program evaluation methods and report writing procedures.Skill in utilizing a personal computer and utilizing associated software.Skill in organizing, planning and prioritizing work.Ability to interpret and apply Federal, State, and local policies, procedures, laws, and regulations.Ability to deliver and articulate presentations and communication and interact effectively with staff, parents, students and the community.Ability to maintain familiarity with current trends for own professional growth by seeking continuing education and in-service training programs.Ability to analyze information and evaluate results to choose best solution and solve problems.Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships both internally and externally.Ability to communicate clearly and effectively.Ability to maintain confidentiality of information.Ability to perform all the essential functions of the position, with or without accommodations.Working conditions are in a classroom environment. Special education specialists may be required to lift and position students with physical disabilities; control behavior through physical restraint; and assist non-ambulatory students.