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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Academic and Behavior Support Staff

💰 $35,000 - $55,000

EducationSpecial EducationBehavioral SupportStudent Services

🎯 Role Definition

Academic and Behavior Support Staff work directly with students to enhance learning, social, and behavioral outcomes. They provide individualized and group support, implement behavior intervention strategies, and collaborate with teachers, counselors, and families to create structured and positive learning environments. Their goal is to promote academic achievement, emotional well-being, and social development for students with diverse learning needs.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Teacher Assistant
  • Behavioral Intervention Technician
  • Special Education Aide

Advancement To:

  • Behavior Specialist
  • Special Education Teacher
  • Program Coordinator

Lateral Moves:

  • Academic Support Specialist
  • School Counselor Assistant

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  1. Provide one-on-one and group academic support to students with diverse learning needs.
  2. Implement individualized behavior intervention plans (BIPs) as designed by teachers or BCBAs.
  3. Monitor and document student behavior, academic progress, and intervention outcomes.
  4. Reinforce positive behavior through structured rewards and motivational strategies.
  5. Assist in classroom management to maintain a safe and productive learning environment.
  6. Support students in developing social, communication, and self-regulation skills.
  7. Facilitate small group instruction and guided practice in academic subjects.
  8. Adapt teaching materials and strategies to meet individual student needs.
  9. Collaborate with teachers, school psychologists, and counselors to modify interventions.
  10. Participate in individualized education program (IEP) meetings and contribute observations.
  11. Track and report on student progress to inform instructional decisions.
  12. Provide crisis intervention and de-escalation support as needed.
  13. Assist with transitions between classroom activities and school settings.
  14. Encourage student engagement and active participation in learning activities.
  15. Provide tutoring and academic reinforcement to support curriculum mastery.
  16. Maintain confidentiality and ethical standards in all student interactions.
  17. Assist with assessment administration and scoring under teacher supervision.
  18. Promote inclusion by supporting students in mainstream classroom activities.
  19. Train and guide paraprofessionals, volunteers, or interns in student support techniques.
  20. Participate in professional development to stay current on educational and behavioral strategies.

Secondary Functions

  • Support the implementation of school-wide behavioral initiatives and positive reinforcement programs.
  • Assist with data entry and analysis for academic and behavioral tracking systems.
  • Contribute to curriculum development for intervention and enrichment programs.
  • Collaborate on parent communication and engagement strategies.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Knowledge of behavior intervention techniques and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles.
  • Ability to implement Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals.
  • Experience with data collection and progress monitoring systems.
  • Familiarity with classroom management and positive reinforcement strategies.
  • Competency in educational technology and digital learning platforms.
  • Understanding of special education laws and regulations.
  • Ability to support students with social-emotional and communication needs.
  • Knowledge of academic curriculum and tutoring strategies.
  • Experience in crisis prevention and de-escalation techniques.
  • Ability to prepare reports and maintain confidential student records.

Soft Skills

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills with students, teachers, and families.
  • Empathy and patience in working with diverse student populations.
  • Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.
  • Adaptability and flexibility in dynamic classroom environments.
  • High level of organization and attention to detail.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
  • Conflict resolution and de-escalation skills.
  • Strong time management for balancing multiple student needs.
  • Positive attitude and ability to motivate and engage students.
  • Commitment to inclusive and culturally responsive practices.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High school diploma or equivalent with relevant training or certification in education or behavioral support.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, Psychology, Behavioral Science, or related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Special Education
  • Psychology
  • Behavioral Science
  • Education

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 1–3 years of experience in academic or behavioral support in school or clinical settings.

Preferred:

  • Prior experience supporting students with special needs or behavioral challenges.
  • Experience implementing ABA strategies or other evidence-based interventions.
  • Familiarity with IEP development, progress monitoring, and educational reporting.
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