Behavior Advocate

Wells Academy; Detroit (MI); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Wells Academy in Detroit, MI is seeking a Behavior Advocate to support students with behavioral, social, and emotional needs. You will collaborate with teachers, families, and support staff to implement positive behavior strategies and ensure appropriate interventions.

The role emphasizes crisis de-escalation, data collection, IEP and SST collaboration, and ongoing professional development to foster inclusive classrooms and student success.

Qualifications

• Education: Certifications or training in behavior analysis, counseling, or crisis intervention are a plus.
• Experience: Prior work with students in a school setting, especially with behavioral challenges.
• Skills: Strong communication, problem-solving, interpersonal skills; calm under pressure; empathy and cultural sensitivity.

Responsibilities

• Advocate for students and ensure their needs are understood and met.
• Provide behavioral support and develop coping strategies and social skills.
• Collaborate with teachers, counselors, admins, and families on individualized behavior plans.
• Respond to behavioral crises with de-escalation and follow-up recommendations.
• Support staff through professional development on behavior management and inclusive classrooms.
• Track progress and document outcomes; communicate with administrators and parents.

Skills

Communication

Problem solving

Interpersonal skills

Calm under pressure

Education

Behavior analysis certification

Crisis intervention certification

Job description

Description

SUMMARY

The Behavior Advocate works directly with students, teachers, and families to support students with behavioral, social, and emotional needs. They advocate for appropriate interventions and accommodations, collaborate with staff to implement positive behavior strategies, and ensure that students have the resources and support necessary to succeed in school.

Key Responsibilities:

• Advocacy for Students
  • Serve as a primary advocate for students with behavioral challenges, ensuring their needs are understood and met.
  • Foster strong relationships with students to identify and address barriers to their success.
  • Ensure students' rights are respected, including those related to Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and 504 Plans.
• Behavioral Support
  • Work with students to develop coping mechanisms, self-regulation skills, and positive social interactions.
  • Provide one-on-one or small group support to students in need.
  • Implement evidence-based behavioral interventions and monitor their effectiveness.
• Collaboration
  • Collaborate with teachers, counselors, administrators, and families to create and implement individualized behavior plans.
  • Act as a liaison between students, families, and school staff to promote understanding and effective communication.
  • Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, including IEP or student support team (SST) meetings.
• Crisis Intervention
  • Respond to immediate behavioral crises in a calm and supportive manner.
  • Assist in de-escalating conflicts or high-stress situations involving students.
  • Provide follow-up support and recommendations after incidents.
• Professional Development
  • Train and guide school staff on behavior management techniques and best practices for inclusive classrooms.
  • Stay updated on behavioral intervention research and techniques.
• Data Collection and Reporting
  • Track student progress and document the effectiveness of behavior plans and interventions.
  • Maintain detailed and confidential records of interactions and outcomes.
  • Provide regular updates to school administrators and parents.

Requirements

Qualifications

• Education
  • Relevant certifications or training in behavior analysis, counseling, or crisis intervention are a plus.
• Experience
  • Previous experience working with students in a school setting, particularly those with behavioral challenges.
  • Familiarity with behavioral intervention strategies and positive behavior support frameworks.
• Skills
  • Strong communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to remain calm under pressure and handle crises effectively.
  • Empathy, patience, and cultural sensitivity when working with diverse populations.

Work Environment

• Primarily works on school premises, including classrooms, and counseling offices.
• May occasionally visit community agencies for meetings.
• Involves periods of standing, walking, and active engagement with students.

Performance Indicators

• Improvement in student behavioral and social-emotional outcomes.
• Successful implementation and monitoring of behavior plans.
• Positive feedback from students, families, and school staff.
• Effective resolution of crises and behavioral challenges.