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Behavior Support Specialist (Immediate)

New York, New York, United States

Behavior Support Specialist (Temporary/Seasonal)

Positions Report to: Director of Inclusive Learning

Start Date: Immediate

End Date: June 26, 2026

Hours: 8:15am - 2:15pm EDT on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays; 8:15am - 1:15pm EDT on Wednesdays

Compensation: $25 per hour

FLSA Status: Non-exempt

Who We Are

Founded in 1958 as a children’s reading group, East Harlem Tutorial Program (EHTP) has grown into a dynamic multi-site after-school program for students in traditional public schools and a network of public charter schools dedicated to dramatically increasing the college graduation rate in East Harlem. We believe that all young people deserve access to an excellent education without having to leave their community. East Harlem is a vibrant neighborhood that has long faced systemic educational inequities, and we work in close partnership with students and families to help them unlock their limitless potential. Our schools and programs provide rigorous, engaging academics combined with holistic support, ensuring that students develop the critical thinking skills, confidence, and knowledge necessary to excel in college and beyond.

At EHTP, we strive to be an agent of change in the fight for racial equity, recognizing that education is a powerful tool for transformation. Through a rigorous, student-centered curriculum, we prepare our scholars to challenge the status quo, think critically, and become leaders who shape a more just world. Our commitment to anti-racism is woven into every aspect of our work—from our instructional practices and professional development to our organizational policies and community engagement. As educators and staff, we continually examine our own biases and identities, ensuring that our classrooms and programs are spaces of inclusion, empowerment, and academic excellence. 

About the Opportunity

The Behavior Support Specialist at East Harlem Scholars Academy provides direct, proactive behavioral and social-emotional support to students with disabilities and students with identified behavioral needs in order to promote safe, inclusive, and equitable access to learning. The specialist works in close collaboration with classroom teachers, case managers, and the Inclusive Learning team to implement individualized behavior supports, reinforce positive behaviors, collect data, and support students with regulation and engagement across school settings.

This role requires a strong commitment to trauma-informed practices, culturally responsive support, and the belief that all students can grow when provided with consistent, compassionate, and structured interventions.

Areas of Leadership

Direct Student Support

  • Provide 1:1 and small-group behavioral support to students with disabilities or identified behavioral needs.
  • Implement Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs), IEP accommodations, safety plans, and MTSS interventions with fidelity.
  • Support students during instructional and non-instructional times, including classrooms, hallways, arrival/dismissal, lunch, recess, and transitions.
  • Provide sensory breaks, regulation strategies, and emotional support aligned with individual student plans.

Behavioral Interventions & Crisis Response

  • Use proactive, preventative strategies to reduce escalation and increase student engagement and independence.
  • Provide real-time de-escalation support during moments of student dysregulation.
  • Apply crisis intervention strategies, including physical assistance or restraint only if trained, required, and permitted by policy, prioritizing student safety, dignity, and documentation.
  • Reinforce school-wide expectations and PBIS-aligned behavioral systems.

Data Collection & Progress Monitoring

  • Observe, collect, record, and summarize behavioral data aligned to IEP goals, BIPs, and intervention plans.
  • Maintain accurate documentation to support progress monitoring, team decision-making, and IEP meetings.
  • Share behavioral trends and observations with the Inclusive Learning team and instructional staff.

Instructional & Classroom Support

  • Assist teachers with implementing behavioral supports, accommodations, and modifications during instruction.
  • Support students individually or in small groups to increase access to learning and classroom participation.
  • Promote skill development, independence, and self-advocacy rather than task completion alone.

Behavioral Materials & Supports

  • Prepare, organize, and maintain behavioral intervention materials, including:
    • Token boards and reinforcement systems
    • Visual schedules and communication supports
    • Sensory tools and regulation resources
    • PBIS incentives and tracking tools

Collaboration & Professional Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with teachers, case managers, behavior specialists, and the Inclusive Learning and MTSS teams.
  • Attend behavior support meetings, professional development sessions, and student planning meetings as required.
  • Communicate professionally and consistently regarding student progress and needs.
  • Maintain confidentiality in accordance with FERPA and school policies.
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support students and the school community.

Required Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • At least one year of experience working with children; experience supporting students with behavioral or trauma-related needs preferred.
  • Ability to follow individualized plans with consistency, professionalism, and attention to detail.
  • Willingness to complete required training, including Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) or equivalent.
  • Successful completion of required background checks.

Preferred Skills & Competencies

  • Knowledge of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and/or Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a plus.
  • Understanding of trauma-informed and culturally responsive practices.
  • Strong interpersonal, communication, and collaboration skills.
  • Ability to remain calm, flexible, and responsive in high-stress situations.
  • Commitment to equity, inclusion, and the mission of East Harlem Scholars Academy.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

  • Work occurs across multiple school environments including classrooms, hallways, cafeterias, playgrounds, and outdoor spaces.
  • Requires standing, walking, bending, lifting, and active supervision throughout the school day.
  • May require lifting up to 50 pounds and providing physical assistance to students as needed.
  • Moderate noise levels and frequent movement within the building.

Reporting Structure

  • Reports directly to the Director of Inclusive Learning.
  • No supervisory responsibilities.

Thank you in advance for taking the time to apply to East Harlem Tutorial Program.

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