Student Support Specialist Restorative Classroom

Barre City Elementary and Middle School is seeking a Student Support Specialist for our restorative classrooms. The Student Support Specialist plays a crucial role in supporting individuals with behavioral challenges within the CARES Program (Creating Alternative Routes for Educating Students). Working with other members of the CARES Program, this position requires working exclusively with students who exhibit significant behavioral challenges throughout the day. The specialist will assist in developing and implementing behavior support plans, conducting assessments, and providing direct interventionincluding physical restraints when necessary. The primary objective of this role is to promote positive behavior change, teach appropriate skills, and create a structured and supportive environment for students with behavioral needs.Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Working one-on-one or in small groups with students who require the highest level of behavioral support
• Assisting with behavior assessment and analysis
• Developing and implementing behavior support plans
• Direct intervention and skill building, including 1:1 intervention and support, focusing on teaching appropriate behaviors and social, emotional, and adaptive skills
• Utilizing physical intervention techniques, including restraint, as needed and in accordance with school policies and training
• Collaborating with multidisciplinary team as well as parents and families
• Collecting and summarizing behavioral data through graphs and/or reports
• Participating in required department meetings, trainings and parent meetings
• Communicating necessary information regularly to students, colleagues and administration regarding student progress and student need

Student Support Specialists must possess the following skills and attributes:

• Previous experience working with students with significant behavioral challenges strongly preferred
• Stay informed about the latest research and best practices in behavior intervention and behavior analysis
• Strong resilience, patience, and the ability to de-escalate high-intensity situations
• Sense of humor and a flexible approach to building relationships with students
• Growth Mindset with students and staff
• Willingness to engage in daily physical interventions, implementing Handle With Care, when necessary, after appropriate training
• Willingness to be trained and maintain SEL/behavioral support skills in Trauma Informed and Restorative Practice approaches and strategies and other relevant topics
• Ability to maintain a physically active day (walk distance, run, lift to various degrees)

Pay range is $23.04- $32.33 based on previous experience as a BI or equivalent. This position also comes with a full benefits package. Ideal candidates are self-directed, empathetic and highly reliable. Flexibility is essential!This position is best suited for individuals who are passionate about working with high-needs students and are prepared to handle daily physical and emotional challenges in a supportive team environment.