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