K-12 Long-Term Substitute Behavior Specialist

Position Title: K-12 Long-Term Substitute Behavior Specialist Reports to:

Director of Special Education Terms of Employment: To cover a leave of absence from approximately September 6, 2024 through November 29, 2024. $ 175 per diem, non-benefits eligible position. Qualifications: Master's Degree in psychology, social work, behavior analysis, counseling , or special education; Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) licensure as a guidance counselor, school adjustment counselor, social worker, psychologist or Board Certified Behavior Analyst, or licensure in moderate or severe disabilities (PreK-8 or 5-12) Experience working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders, emotional disturbances and other mental health impairments, cognitive impairments, and related disabilities; Experience conducting behavioral assessment including, but not limited to, formal Functional Behavioral Assessments, data collection, and teacher training; Two years public school classroom experience preferred; Strong written and verbal communication skills; Possesses excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to handle emotionally- charged situations Possesses strong verbal de-escalation skills Willingness to adhere to the core purposes and the policies and procedures of the Lexington Public Schools Responsibilities:

To develop step-by-step student-specific behavior plans that: 1) identify problem behavior using behavioral definitions that are observable and measurable, 2) identify appropriate intervention strategies based on the hypothesized function of the problem behavior, and 3) identify functionally equivalent appropriate behaviors to replace challenging behaviors Plan, implement, and evaluate individualized and data-based instruction for students with disabilities using the framework of explicit instruction and school-wide positive behavior supports, as well as other evidence-based practices. To train school personnel to implement written behavior plans using modeling of strategies outlined in the plan, and providing feedback To train school personnel to use verbal de-escalation strategies to diffuse a potentially escalating situation To train school personnel in the use of accepted protocols for physical restraint To monitor student progress through data collection, including creating data sheets, graphing data, and modifying programs based on the data. Monitor staff implementation of behavior plans To consult regularly with other team members, including classroom teachers, special educators, instructional assistants, administrators, and parents To conduct formal Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBA's), as described in the district's FBA Manual, to determine the environmental variables that are maintaining challenging behaviors.

Develop individualized behavior plans based on this assessment data. To conduct Home Assessments as necessary to determine the need for behavioral and educational supports in the home setting including, but not limited to before and or after the regular school day. To attend IEP meetings to provide behavioral, social, and academic expertise.

Assist teachers in writing IEPs with behavioral accommodations, modifications, and measurable annual goals and objectives. Other duties as assigned Necessary Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:Willingness and ability to work collaboratively and help colleagues as part of a team effort. Ability to work diplomatically, collegially, and cooperatively with school personnel and the larger Lexington community Ability to multitask, prioritize, and handle large volumes of work and a variety of jobs associated with a position which requires consulting with and supporting staff in a number of different school environments Ability to handle stressful situations with tact and composure Maintenance of strict confidentiality Personal computer literate; computer programs including, but not limited to:

Gmail, Google Docs/sheets, IEP software; Excel, etc. Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Occasionally lift and/or move/restrain students in grades pre K-12 using an approved one or two person restraint procedure The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

Experience and commitment to working in a racially and culturally diverse teaching and learning community. Applicants for employment are considered without regard to age, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, or military status. " />