Behavior Support Specialist - Abilities First Myers Corners Education Center in Wappingers Falls, NY

Who We Are

For over 60 years, Abilities First, Inc. has been empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to live their most vibrant, independent lives. From early education to adulthood, our wide range of services - including preschool and school programs, day programs and residential services, community connections, and employment services - are designed to uplift every individual’s unique strengths and dreams.

We believe in the power of people - of every background, identity, and ability - to create change and build a more inclusive world. Abilities First is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is welcoming and supportive of people of varying abilities, races, ethnicities, religions, socio-economic status, gender and gender identities. At Abilities First, you’ll join a mission-driven team that values collaboration, celebrates individuality, and is dedicated to meaningful work. If you're ready to turn your passion into purpose, we’d love to welcome you aboard.

Who We Need

We are looking for patient, energetic and passionate Behavior Support Specialist for our Myers Corners School program, located in Wappingers Falls, NY. This is an opportunity to work with an interdisciplinary team, focusing on the educational programming for all school-age children at every level of ability. This position will provide behavioral support for students in the classroom to increase student independence through age appropriate, functional means.

Schedule

Monday - Friday 8:00 am-3:00 pm, 32.5 hours per week, 48 weeks per year (includes a 6-week summer program)

Pay Range:

$18.04 - $20.04

Responsibilities

• Collect data as part of a functional behavior analysis.
• Monitor behavior and strategies and interventions accordingly
• Collaborate with classroom teacher on appropriate use of positive reinforcements.
• Manage challenging behaviors of students in classroom using research-based practices.
• Follows the classroom schedule ensuring that individual student’s IEP, specifically behavioral goals are achieved.
• Assists in the classroom to conduct individual and group activities.
• Attend and participate in staff meetings and job skill training.
• Attend therapy sessions with students to assist with behavior management and to allow for appropriate carryover in the classroom.
• Assists in the organization and arrangement of the classroom as part of student's therapeutic behavior plan.
• Escorts and assists students (via wheelchair, walker, etc.) to and from school buses while providing opportunities for students’ increased independence in mobility and orientation.
• Attends all specials with students (PE, art, music, etc.)
• Takes off and puts on outdoor clothing as necessary and provide opportunities for students’ increased independence in self-dressing and undressing.
• Toilet children and use appropriate adaptive equipment if necessary. This should be done at least 3 times daily (more often when necessary.)
• Change clothing when wet or soiled.
• Change diapers and/or sanitary napkins as necessary.
• Set up computers, communication device systems and related adaptive equipment.
• Adhere to agency Code of Legal and Ethical Behavior, which require all employees, consultants, board members, volunteers and affiliates to perform their responsibilities according to ethical and legal standards with honesty, integrity, fairness, good faith and respect for others and the law.
• Follows all agency policy and procedures and demonstrates continuous regard to personal safety and the safety of others.
• Performs other appropriate job-related activities as requested by your supervisor or as circumstances warrant.

Requirements

• Perks & Benefits*:
• Time to Recharge – Personal and sick time with additional paid time off in accordance with school calendar
• Health & Wellness – Medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you covered, and free Employee Assistance Program available 24/7
• Plan for The Future – Retirement savings plan options, employer-paid life insurance, and access to Free Will
• Level Up Your Skills– Tuition reimbursement and career development training opportunities
• Get Paid When You Need It – On Demand Pay gives you access to earnings as early as the next day
• Make a Difference and Be Recognized! – We celebrate our team through staff appreciation events, employee awards, team celebrations, and ongoing recognition of exceptional performance and service.
• And More!

Physical Demands

• Have the ability to push and pull students in wheelchairs, lift, bend, squat, turn in the knees, pivot and grasp with both hands (in order to properly and safely perform the techniques taught in CPR/First Aid, behavior intervention techniques, and lifting and carrying techniques), with or without a reasonable accommodation.
• Possess verbal and written communication skills, in English, to ensure adequate regulatory documentation.

*Eligibility requirements may apply

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• A combination of education and experience which in the opinion of school administration meets the needs of the school program.

NOTE: The salary range represents the expected range of compensation for this position exclusive of fringe benefits or other job specific stipends where applicable. The actual starting salary for the successful candidate will be based on qualifications, experience, skills, education, internal equity, and other job-related factors. Not all candidates will qualify for the maximum range.