Behavior Intervention Specialist

Instructional Assistant - Behavior Intervention SpecialistLocation: Westfield Middle SchoolReports To: Principal/Special Education DirectorWork Schedule: 35 hrs per week; 176-days per yearJob SummaryThe Behavior Intervention Specialist Instructional Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting students with behavioral challenges within the school environment. This highly motivated and self-starting individual will work closely with a behavior consultant to develop, implement, and monitor individualized behavior intervention plans. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong communication skills, collaborate effectively with classroom teachers and other school staff, and possess the ability to facilitate behavior strategies while fostering the teacher's capacity to manage student behavior independently over time.Key ResponsibilitiesBehavior Program Development & Implementation: Act as a self-starter in proactively identifying student needs related to behavior. Collaborate directly with a designated behavior consultant to create comprehensive and individualized behavior intervention plans (BIPs) based on functional behavioral assessments (FBAs). Independently implement assigned behavior intervention strategies and programs with fidelity across various school settings (classroom, hallways, cafeteria, etc.). Collect and meticulously record data on student behavior and intervention effectiveness as outlined in the BIP.Collaboration & Communication: Work collaboratively and professionally with classroom teachers, special education staff, administrators, and other support personnel to ensure consistent implementation of behavior plans. Maintain strong, clear, and proactive communication with the behavior consultant regarding student progress, challenges, and program adjustments. Communicate effectively and respectfully with students, fostering a positive and supportive relationship. Provide regular updates and insights to classroom teachers regarding student behavior, progress, and strategies.Skill Development & Transfer: Actively facilitate the understanding and implementation of behavior strategies by classroom teachers and other relevant staff. Strategically work to relinquish control of behavior management back to the classroom teacher as student skills develop and the teacher demonstrates increased capacity. Provide coaching and modeling to teachers on effective behavior management techniques.Problem-Solving & Adaptability: Proactively identify and address emergent behavioral issues, seeking guidance from the behavior consultant when necessary. Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability in responding to changing student needs and school priorities. Utilize a variety of de-escalation techniques and positive behavior supports.Professionalism & Confidentiality: Maintain strict confidentiality regarding all student information and records. Adhere to all school district policies, procedures, and ethical guidelines. Participate in relevant professional development opportunities as required.QualificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent required; Associate's degree or higher in a related field (e.g., psychology, education, child development) preferred. Prior experience working with children or adolescents, particularly those with behavioral challenges, strongly preferred. Demonstrated knowledge of behavior intervention strategies, positive behavior supports (PBS), and basic principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA). Proven ability to be a self-starter and work independently with minimal direct supervision. Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal). Ability to collect and organize data accurately. Strong collaborative skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team. Patience, empathy, and a genuine desire to support student success. Ability to maintain composure and effectiveness in challenging situations.Physical Requirements: Ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and move quickly as needed to support student safety and engagement. May require the ability to physically intervene in a crisis situation following established protocols.