Behavior Specialist (Anticipated) – 2026-2027 School Year

Journey Academy; Michigan City (IN); On-site; USD 20,664 - 34,440; Part time

Job summary

Journey Academy seeks a dedicated individual to support students with emotional and behavioral challenges in Michigan City, Indiana. Responsibilities include implementing behavior intervention strategies, monitoring student progress, and collaborating with educational teams. Required qualifications include a High School Diploma and desirable experience with emotional disabilities. This role demands strong communication skills and the ability to work in high-stress situations, making a positive impact in the school's supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Experience working with students with emotional disabilities preferred.
• Crisis prevention certification or willingness to obtain certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support students with emotional and behavioral needs.
• Implement PBIS strategies and individualized behavior plans.
• Assist with development and monitoring of behavioral interventions.
• Utilize trauma-informed approaches in student support.
• Monitor student progress and maintain behavioral documentation.

Skills

Communication skills

Collaboration skills

Problem-solving skills

Calmness under pressure

Knowledge of PBIS

Education

High School Diploma

Bachelor's Degree in Education or related field

Job description

• Support students with emotional, behavioral, social, and self-regulation needs across school environments
• Implement positive behavior intervention and support (PBIS) strategies and individualized behavior plans
• Assist with development, implementation, and monitoring of behavioral interventions and supports
• Utilize trauma-informed, relationship-based, and restorative approaches when supporting students
• Support students during behavioral escalations using safe de-escalation strategies and crisis response procedures
• Collaborate with teachers, administrators, related service providers, and families regarding student behavioral and emotional needs
• Collect, track, and maintain behavioral data and documentation
• Monitor student progress and communicate observations and recommendations to the educational team
• Provide coaching and support to staff regarding behavior management strategies and classroom supports
• Assist in creating structured, safe, and supportive learning environments
• Promote positive social interactions, emotional regulation, and student independence
• Participate in student support meetings, professional development, and parent communications as needed
• Maintain confidentiality regarding student records and information
• Support implementation of individualized education programs (IEPs), accommodations, and behavioral goals
• Maintain accurate and compliant documentation in accordance with DOE and Journey Academy policies
• Assist with supervision of students during transitions, community outings, lunch, recess, and other school activities
• Collaborate with staff to maintain consistent expectations, routines, and behavioral supports across settings
• Stay current on best practices related to behavior intervention, emotional disabilities, trauma-informed care, and student mental health
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the overall success of the program

Qualifications

• High School Diploma Required
• Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, Behavior Analysis, or related field a plus
• Experience working with students with emotional disabilities, autism, behavioral challenges, or mental health needs preferred
• Knowledge of PBIS, behavior intervention strategies, trauma-informed practices, and de-escalation techniques
• Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to remain calm, flexible, and supportive in high-stress situations
• crisis prevention certification or willingness to obtain certification preferred
• Compensation hourly: based on experience

Journey Academy is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity or sexual orientation), disability, age, religion, military status, ancestry, or genetic information.