Behavior Support Specialist

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive functional behavioral assessments (FBAs) to identify underlying causes of student behaviors, including skill deficits and mental health needs.
• Develop and implement individualized behavior intervention plans (BIPs) that emphasize positive behavior supports, skill-building, and reflective practices.
• Provide direct counseling and social skills instruction, both individually and in groups, addressing issues such as anger management, conflict resolution, and impulse control.
• Facilitate restorative conversations that help students reflect on their actions, understand their impact, take responsibility, and make amends.
• Design and oversee structured re-entry plans to support students’ successful transition back into the learning environment.

• Collaborate closely with teachers, administrators, school counselors, and other staff to support students’ behavioral and academic progress.
• Engage families as partners by sharing information, understanding home contexts, and ensuring consistency between school and home behavioral supports.
• Coordinate referrals to community-based mental health, mentoring, and support services to enhance student well-being.
• Coach and model effective classroom management and de-escalation techniques to build staff capacity.
• Maintain timely, accurate documentation of behavioral interventions, progress, and outcomes to inform ongoing support.

• Develop and implement alternative discipline processes tailored to various grade levels.
• Actively contribute to school-wide behavior initiatives, including PBIS Tier 2 and Tier 3 interventions and attendance improvement programs.
• Collect, analyze, and report on student behavior data to monitor individual and program effectiveness, guiding data-driven decision-making.
• Participate in school and district meetings focused on student behavior, intervention services, and attendance, providing expertise and collaborative solutions.

Qualifications and Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred in psychology, social work, school psychology, counseling, or a related field.
• Preferred certifications include LCSW, LMSW, LCPC, MDOE 075 (School Counselor), MDOE 093 (School Psychologist), MDOE 003 (Licensed Social Worker), or Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
• Valid State of Maine Criminal History Record Check (CHRC) approval.

Desired Skills and Abilities

• Proven experience in behavioral assessment, intervention design, and implementation within school settings.
• Strong knowledge of PBIS, trauma-informed care, MTSS, and restorative practices.
• Expertise in applying restorative and trauma-sensitive approaches to student discipline.
• Skilled in a variety of behavioral strategies and de-escalation techniques.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills to build trusting relationships with students, staff, and families.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse student populations and adapt to varying needs.
• Proficiency in data collection, analysis, and report writing to support program evaluation.
• Familiarity with state and federal regulations related to student behavior and special education, including IDEA and Section 504.
• Flexibility, reliability, and a strong commitment to fostering a positive, inclusive school culture.

Why Join Bangor School Department?

• Be part of a supportive community dedicated to equity, inclusion, and student success.
• Collaborate with a committed team of educators and specialists focused on innovative, student-centered behavioral supports.
• Access professional development opportunities to grow your skills and impact.
• Contribute meaningfully to a district that values restorative practices and proactive approaches to student well-being.