Behavior Support Specialist (K-6)

Michigan City Area Schools•Michigan City, IN

2d•$70,000 - $80,000

About The Position

The Behavior Support Specialist supports positive student behavior and improves school climate by implementing targeted behavioral interventions and collaborating with teachers, counselors, and administrators. This position strengthens Tier 1–3 MTSS systems, supports both general education and special education students, and helps implement PBIS, CHAMPS, and bullying-prevention programming. The specialist provides ongoing coaching and professional development to staff, ensuring proactive, data-driven behavior practices that promote student success.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Education, Psychology, Counseling, or Social Work required.
Minimum of three years of successful K–8 school experience in teaching, counseling, social work, or behavior support.
Demonstrated ability to facilitate professional development and lead adults in implementing effective behavior interventions and schoolwide practices.
Demonstrated success implementing MTSS/PBIS frameworks and coaching adults.
Proven skills in conducting FBAs and developing BIPs.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills with students and staff.
Ability to analyze data and facilitate collaborative problem-solving.
Experience with restorative practices and SEL programming.
Culturally responsive mindset and commitment to equity and inclusion.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred.
Valid Indiana teaching, school counselor, or social work license preferred.
Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) credential preferred.
CPI or equivalent crisis-prevention certification preferred.
CHAMPS, PBIS, or MTSS training is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Model and coach evidence-based classroom management (CHAMPS, PBIS, MTSS).
Partner with principals, counselors, and teachers to develop Tier 1 and Tier 2 supports.
Provide training and guidance on behavior management techniques to school personnel.
Assist with data analysis to identify patterns and guide interventions.
Conduct or support Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs) and develop individualized Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) and small-group behavioral supports.
Support implementation of restorative practices and de-escalation strategies.
Provide direct interventions and coaching to students demonstrating behavioral challenges.
Lead implementation of anti-bullying and social-emotional learning (SEL) initiatives.
Collaborate with counselors and social workers to strengthen student well-being programs.
Support parent education and community outreach related to behavior and wellness.
Coordinate PBIS teams and maintain behavior dashboards (referrals, attendance, SEL).
Maintain detailed documentation and ensure compliance with relevant policies.
Evaluate and report program effectiveness to building and district leadership.