Behavior Specialist

KIPP Foundation; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking organization dedicated to empowering students in underserved communities. As a Behavior Specialist, you will play a crucial role in fostering positive behavioral outcomes and supporting the social-emotional development of students. This position offers the opportunity to implement individualized behavior intervention plans, collaborate with a dedicated team, and contribute to a positive school culture. You will work closely with educators and mental health professionals to ensure every student thrives in a supportive environment. If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of students, this role is perfect for you.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision options

Life insurance

Fertility and disability plans

Professional development opportunities

Leadership training

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in behavioral support or special education is required.
• Certification in Applied Behavior Analysis or related credential preferred.

Responsibilities

• Implement behavior intervention plans and support social-emotional development.
• Collaborate with educators and mental health professionals for student success.

Skills

Collaboration

Behavior Management

Diversity and Inclusion

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Education, or a related field

Master’s degree in a relevant field

Job description

KIPP Kansas City Public Schools is part of a nationwide network of free, open-enrollment, college-preparatory charter schools dedicated to preparing students in educationally underserved communities for success in college and life. Our strength as a region serves as a catalyst for empowerment, change, and hope.

Founded in 2007, KIPP Kansas City Public Schools began with KIPP Endeavor Academy, serving approximately 31 fifth-grade students. Today, we educate approximately 1,000 students from Pre-K through 12th grade, with our community continuing to expand. Together with families and communities, we strive to create joyful, academically excellent schools that equip students with the skills and confidence to pursue their chosen paths—whether college, career, or beyond—so they can lead fulfilling lives and contribute to a more just world.

Job Description

Position Overview:

The Behavior Specialist at KIPP Kansas City is responsible for promoting positive behavioral outcomes and supporting the social-emotional development of students, with a focus on those in SPED and Tier 4 settings. This role involves implementing individualized behavior intervention plans, collaborating with the Special Education team, providing staff training, and collaborating with families and the community to support our most intensive behavior needs. The Behavior Specialist will work closely with educators, administrators, and mental health professionals to foster a positive school culture and enhance overall student success.

Key Responsibilities:

Behavior Support & Intervention:

• Assist in applying school-wide and classroom-specific behavior management strategies to promote a positive school culture, with tailored interventions for students receiving Tier 1, 2, and 3 supports.
• Provide hands-on support for students across general education and Tier 1-3 settings, implementing established intervention strategies to reinforce positive behavior and address behavioral challenges.
• Support classroom teachers and school staff in responding promptly to behavioral incidents using de-escalation techniques and other positive intervention methods.
• Assist in the execution of existing behavior intervention plans under the direction of licensed specialists and special education staff.

Collaboration with Staff:

• Work closely with licensed behavioral specialists and Special Education teachers to implement individualized support strategies for students with IEPs.
• Support data collection and documentation of student behaviors, assisting licensed staff in tracking progress and observing behavior trends as part of formalized support plans.
• Attend team meetings to discuss student progress, behavioral trends, and strategies for effective support, ensuring alignment with KIPP KC’s values and behavior management approach.

Documentation and Communication:

• Maintain accurate records of behavior incidents, interventions, and daily notes as directed, ensuring detailed and timely documentation.
• Communicate regularly with licensed behavioral specialists, teachers, and school leaders to share observations and participate in discussions on student behavior management.

Training & Development:

• Participate in training sessions on behavior intervention techniques, de-escalation strategies, and proactive student support.
• Demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and improvement in behavioral support practices, with an openness to guidance and feedback from licensed professionals.

Qualifications

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Education, or a related field (required).
• Master’s degree in a relevant field (preferred).
• A minimum of 2 years of experience in behavioral support, special education, or a related role, with experience in SPED and/or Tier 4 settings strongly preferred.
• Certification in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) or a related credential (preferred); candidates with significant SPED/Tier 4 experience may be considered in lieu of certification.

Skills and Competencies:

• Commitment to KIPP KC’s mission and values
• Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse environment
• Demonstrates a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Fosters an inclusive environment for students, staff, and families
• Works effectively with colleagues and stakeholders
• Builds strong relationships within the KIPP KC community

Physical Requirements:

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions.
• The person in this position needs to be able to move about inside and outside the school or office throughout the workday.
• The candidate is expected to attend conferences, meetings and training sessions both virtually and in person within the Region.

Additional Information

• Reports to work Monday-Friday and some weekends.
• A typical school or office environment with frequent interruptions.

Travel Requirements:

• Ability to travel to work location.

Compensation and Benefits:

Salary is based on years of experience, educational background, and level of expertise.

As a full-time KIPP Kansas City employee, you are eligible to participate in all KIPP Kansas City benefit plans. We offer a comprehensive range of benefits with competitive rates, including medical, dental, and vision options, as well as life insurance, fertility, and disability plans.

KIPP Kansas City is committed to the professional growth and development of our staff. We provide numerous opportunities for advancement, ongoing professional development, and leadership training to help you achieve your career goals.

KIPP Kansas City provides equal employment opportunities for all applicants and employees. As an equal opportunity employer, we hire without consideration of race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, or disability.