Job Title: Behavior Support Staff (K–8)
Location: District Wide Position
Reports To: Behavior Specialist, Principal, or Designee
Position Summary:
The Behavior Support Staff will work directly with students in kindergarten through eighth grade who demonstrate behavior challenges, need additional support, or are completing ISR (In-School Recovery) time in K-5. This individual will implement behavior strategies under the direction of the district behavior specialist, promote a positive and inclusive environment, and support students in developing self-regulation, social-emotional, and problem-solving skills. The ideal candidate is patient, compassionate, and committed to supporting all learners with dignity and respect.
Key Responsibilities:
Provide behavioral and emotional support to individual students and small groups in classroom, ISR, and common area settings.
Support implementation of behavior intervention plans (BIPs), crisis plans, and social-emotional learning strategies under the guidance of certified staff.
Supervise and positively engage students assigned to ISR, ensuring a safe, calm, and structured environment by teaching replacement behaviors and skill acquisition.
Model and reinforce positive behavior strategies and de-escalation techniques in accordance with school policies.
Collaborate with teachers, administrators, and counselors to support student success and build positive relationships.
Assist in data collection on student behavior for progress monitoring and intervention effectiveness.
Utilize trauma-informed and inclusive practices when interacting with students.
Support transitions for students returning to class from ISR or crisis recovery.
Maintain confidentiality, professionalism, and consistency in all interactions both with students and adults.
Qualifications:
Completed at least 2 years of study (48 semester hours) at an institution of higher learning; OR
Obtained an associate’s (or higher) degree; OR
Passed the ACT Work Keys Test at Silver Level or higher
Required:
High school diploma or equivalent
Experience working with school-aged children, especially those with behavioral or emotional needs in highly preferred
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Ability to remain calm and compassionate in challenging situations
Commitment to equity, inclusion, and positive behavioral supports
Ability to accept feedback and adjust as needed for the needs of the role
Preferred:
Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) Certification
Experience in special education, behavior intervention, or school-based behavioral programs
CPI or similar de-escalation training
Working Conditions:
School environment with occasional need to manage physical or emotional outbursts
Flexibility to move throughout classrooms, hallways, and ISR space
Possible need for physical intervention as per training (if applicable)
Terms of Employment:
Salary and work year to be established by the Board of Education.
Evaluation:
Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board's policy on Evaluation of Professional Personnel and the Mississippi Department of Education.
This employee shall be subject to all applicable policies, resolutions, and regulations of the Hancock County School District and the laws of the State of Mississippi. Hancock County School District does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, color, national origin, religion or handicap.
