Behavioral Support Specialist (Part-Time), St. Joseph Center for Special Learning

Diocese of Allentown; North Manheim Township (PA); On-site; USD 17,000 - 28,000; Part time

Job summary

Diocese of Allentown, St. Joseph Center for Special Learning in Schuylkill Haven, seeks a Behavioral Support Specialist for 20 hours per week to support students, teachers, aides, parents, and administrators with positive behavioral interventions and safe learning environments.

The role requires a Bachelor’s degree (psychology, social work, child development or related field preferred) and experience in special education or with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; degree in psychology, social work, child development, or related field preferred.
• Experience working in special education or with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist in developing, implementing, and monitoring individual behavior management plans for students with behavioral/mental health needs.
• Provide assistance and support to staff in managing student behavior effectively.
• Provide crisis management support as needed.
• Conduct student observations and complete behavior reports.
• Conduct FAA and collect behavioral data as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Participate in IEP meetings and collaborate with teachers, therapists, and staff.
• Provide staff training on behavior support and evidence-based practices.
• Maintain knowledge of applicable laws and regulations for individuals with exceptional needs.
• Communicate with parents and collaborate with community partner agencies as appropriate.
• Uphold the mission and values of St. Joseph Center for Special Learning.

Skills

Behavioral intervention strategies

Communication skills

Staff collaboration

Crisis management

Documentation and reporting

Confidentiality and ethics

Education

Bachelor's degree in psychology / social work / child development

Job description

DIOCESE OF ALLENTOWN

St. Joseph Center for Special Learning, Schuylkill Haven

Position Description

Job Title: Behavioral Support Specialist

Job Status: Part-time (specific days/hours to be determined)

Reporting Functions: Reports to Principal, Bob Giba

Job Function: The Behavior Support Specialist provides support and consultation to students, teachers, aides, parents, and administrators regarding the implementation of positive behavioral interventions for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This position assists in developing strategies that promote positive behavior and support a safe and effective learning environment.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist in developing, implementing, and monitoring individual behavior management plans for students with behavioral and/or mental health needs.
• Provide assistance and support to staff in maintaining effective management of student behavior.
• Provide crisis management support as needed.
• Conduct student observations and complete behavior reports.
• Conduct Functional Analysis Assessments (FAA) and collect behavioral data as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Participate in IEP meetings and collaborate with teachers, therapists, and other staff.
• Provide staff training and professional development related to behavior support and evidence-based practices.
• Maintain knowledge of current laws and regulations pertaining to individuals with exceptional needs.
• Communicate with parents and collaborate with community partner agencies as appropriate.
• Uphold the mission and values of St. Joseph Center for Special Learning.

Additional Conditions of Employment

Due to the nature and mission of the Catholic Church, all employees are bound to exhibit respect for the teachings and discipline of the Church regarding matters of faith and morals, including maintaining a lifestyle that is in conformity with the teachings of the Catholic Church.

Educational Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree required; degree in psychology, social work, child development, or a related field preferred.
• Experience working in special education or with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities preferred.

Other Qualifications

• Knowledge of behavioral intervention strategies and special education practices.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and crisis management skills.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and complete required reports.
• Ability to maintain professionalism when addressing challenging situations.
• Valid Pennsylvania Driver's License required.
• Must pass all required background checks and training requirements before employment.
• Maintain confidentiality and uphold professional standards in accordance with school policies.
• Attend required staff training sessions and meetings as needed.

Physical Demands

The employee is regularly required to stand, walk, sit, talk, and hear both in person and by telephone; frequent use of equipment that includes repetitive motions and computer eye fatigue. Occasionally required to reach and lift with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl, lift and/or move safely up to 10-20 pounds. Must be trained in de-escalation tactics; ability to respond to behavioral situations and provide appropriate support when necessary. Must possess the physical and emotional stamina required to work in potentially stressful. Vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels; visual acuity is required for preparing and analyzing written or computer data, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observing general surroundings and activities.

Working Conditions

Special Learning Center environment. Working hours are 8 AM - 3 PM; part-time, 20 hours a week; hours will be based on student needs. Occasional work outside working hours may occur, and participation in trainings and meetings as required.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and requirements.

EOE M/F/D/V