Elementary Behavior Support Specialist

Elementary Behavior Support Specialist

Location: Highland Elementary School | Riverside, Iowa Anticipated Start Date: January 2027 - Second Semester Employment Type: Full-Time or Long-Term Substitute Reports To: Elementary Principal Compensation: Based on qualifications, experience, and applicable district compensation structures

Position Overview

Highland Community School District is seeking a student-centered Behavior Support Specialist to provide targeted behavioral support at Highland Elementary.

This individual will work alongside the school counselor, instructional coach, and building principal to coordinate student supports, implement proactive behavioral strategies, and respond to escalated student needs. The specialist will also collaborate with classroom teachers and special education staff to support individualized interventions, including those outlined in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs).

The primary focus of this position is helping students develop the skills needed to participate successfully in classroom learning through direct support, strong relationships, and consistent interventions.

Essential Responsibilities

• Provide individual, small-group, and classroom support focused on self-regulation, coping strategies, problem-solving, and positive behaviors.
• Work with the counselor, instructional coach, and principal to identify student needs, coordinate interventions, and monitor progress.
• Assist with de-escalation and provide supervised support during behavioral incidents, following district procedures and individual student plans.
• Support students' successful return to classroom instruction following behavioral incidents, in coordination with the principal and classroom teacher.
• Implement assigned behavioral goals, accommodations, and interventions outlined in IEPs, Section 504 plans, and BIPs.
• Collect relevant behavioral data and document interventions to help the team evaluate progress and adjust supports.
• Collaborate with teachers and families, and participate in student support meetings as appropriate to assigned responsibilities.
• Maintain student dignity, confidentiality, and safety while following district policies and applicable requirements.

The building principal will establish service priorities to balance planned interventions with immediate student needs.

Qualifications

• Valid Iowa teaching license appropriate to the assignment.
• K-12 Instructional Strategist II: Behavioral Disorders/Learning Disabilities (BD/LD) endorsement, or willingness to pursue the endorsement.
• Experience supporting elementary students with behavioral or social-emotional needs preferred.
• Familiarity with IEPs, BIPs, positive behavioral supports, and de-escalation strategies preferred.
• Strong relationship-building, communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.
• Ability to remain calm, patient, and consistent during challenging situations.
• Commitment to inclusive learning environments and the belief that all students can succeed with appropriate support and high expectations.

Employment Considerations

Highland will consider candidates for either a full-time position or a long-term substitute assignment beginning in January 2027. Final employment classification, duration, compensation, and assigned responsibilities will reflect district needs, candidate qualifications, and applicable Iowa licensure requirements.

Highland Community School District operates on a four-day school week.

Highland Community School District is an equal opportunity employer.

Subject Area/Teaching Field/Endorsement

100 PK-3 Teacher, Regular Education/Special Education, 263 K-12 Instructional Strategist II: BD/LD

Extra-Curricular Coaching/Sponsoring Interests

Coach

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