Allegheny Intermediate Unit
Student Behavior Assistant
Allegheny Intermediate Unit, Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania, United States, 15145
Alternative Education Program
Position Summary: The Student Support Specialist provides day-to-day behavioral support to students in the Alternative Education Program. This role is centered on assisting students in developing and maintaining positive behaviors, de-escalating conflict, and reinforcing school-wide expectations in collaboration with counselors, teachers, and administrators. The focus is on active supervision, behavioral redirection, and the promotion of a safe and supportive school climate. Primary Responsibilities: Behavioral Support Actively supervise and support students in classrooms, hallways, cafeterias, and other school areas. Reinforce expectations for behavior and provide in-the-moment redirection as needed. Use trauma-informed and restorative approaches to support student regulation. Assist with the implementation of student-specific behavior supports as directed by administrators. Provide modeling and support for positive decision-making and conflict resolution. Crisis and Safety Response Respond promptly and appropriately to student behavior(s). Assist in securing a safe environment by de-escalating situations using approved intervention methods. Document behavioral incidents and notify appropriate personnel in a timely manner. Student Relationship Building Build strong, positive relationships with students based on respect, consistency, and trust. Provide one-on-one or small-group check-ins to reinforce positive behavior and engagement. Serve as a consistent, supportive adult presence for students who require additional behavioral guidance. School Environment Support Support classroom routines, transitions, and expectations. Assist with maintaining a clean, orderly, and safe learning environment. Monitor and supervise students during non-instructional times, including lunch, arrival, dismissal, and transitions. Collaboration Work under the direction of administrators to support student success. Participate in team discussions as needed to provide input on student behavior and engagement. Communicate effectively with staff to relay observations or concerns related to student behavior. Professional Learning Participate in training related to behavior management, crisis intervention, trauma-informed care, and restorative practices. Apply training in daily interactions with students to support a positive and inclusive environment. Qualifications: Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Associate's or bachelor's degree in education, psychology, social work, or a related field preferred. Experience: Experience working with youth in behavioral, educational, or alternative settings preferred. Familiarity with trauma-informed practices and de-escalation techniques a plus. Skills: Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build rapport with students. Ability to remain calm under pressure and respond effectively to challenging situations. Capable of enforcing rules consistently while maintaining empathy and professionalism. Basic proficiency in documentation and use of Microsoft Office tools. Physical Requirements and Working Conditions: Must be able to stand, walk, and actively engage with students throughout the day. Able to lift or carry up to 35 pounds. Kneeling, bending, and reaching may be required during student support activities. Ability to speak clearly, hear effectively, and observe student behavior visually. Clearances Required: Act 114, Act 34, Act 151, and NSOR clearances required prior to hire (dated within one year). Completion of the School Personnel Health Record (Form H511.340) required prior to start date. Reports To: Principal Position Schedule: 192-day FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Salary & Benefits: SSE-AEP; single benefits
Position Summary: The Student Support Specialist provides day-to-day behavioral support to students in the Alternative Education Program. This role is centered on assisting students in developing and maintaining positive behaviors, de-escalating conflict, and reinforcing school-wide expectations in collaboration with counselors, teachers, and administrators. The focus is on active supervision, behavioral redirection, and the promotion of a safe and supportive school climate. Primary Responsibilities: Behavioral Support Actively supervise and support students in classrooms, hallways, cafeterias, and other school areas. Reinforce expectations for behavior and provide in-the-moment redirection as needed. Use trauma-informed and restorative approaches to support student regulation. Assist with the implementation of student-specific behavior supports as directed by administrators. Provide modeling and support for positive decision-making and conflict resolution. Crisis and Safety Response Respond promptly and appropriately to student behavior(s). Assist in securing a safe environment by de-escalating situations using approved intervention methods. Document behavioral incidents and notify appropriate personnel in a timely manner. Student Relationship Building Build strong, positive relationships with students based on respect, consistency, and trust. Provide one-on-one or small-group check-ins to reinforce positive behavior and engagement. Serve as a consistent, supportive adult presence for students who require additional behavioral guidance. School Environment Support Support classroom routines, transitions, and expectations. Assist with maintaining a clean, orderly, and safe learning environment. Monitor and supervise students during non-instructional times, including lunch, arrival, dismissal, and transitions. Collaboration Work under the direction of administrators to support student success. Participate in team discussions as needed to provide input on student behavior and engagement. Communicate effectively with staff to relay observations or concerns related to student behavior. Professional Learning Participate in training related to behavior management, crisis intervention, trauma-informed care, and restorative practices. Apply training in daily interactions with students to support a positive and inclusive environment. Qualifications: Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Associate's or bachelor's degree in education, psychology, social work, or a related field preferred. Experience: Experience working with youth in behavioral, educational, or alternative settings preferred. Familiarity with trauma-informed practices and de-escalation techniques a plus. Skills: Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build rapport with students. Ability to remain calm under pressure and respond effectively to challenging situations. Capable of enforcing rules consistently while maintaining empathy and professionalism. Basic proficiency in documentation and use of Microsoft Office tools. Physical Requirements and Working Conditions: Must be able to stand, walk, and actively engage with students throughout the day. Able to lift or carry up to 35 pounds. Kneeling, bending, and reaching may be required during student support activities. Ability to speak clearly, hear effectively, and observe student behavior visually. Clearances Required: Act 114, Act 34, Act 151, and NSOR clearances required prior to hire (dated within one year). Completion of the School Personnel Health Record (Form H511.340) required prior to start date. Reports To: Principal Position Schedule: 192-day FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Salary & Benefits: SSE-AEP; single benefits