Career

How To Become A Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher In New Mexico 2024

Learn everything you need to know about becoming a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher, including salary, schools, and programs.

Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher in New Mexico Career Overview

As a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher, you play a vital role in shaping the educational experiences of young students who may have social, emotional, or behavioral challenges. Your work primarily involves creating a supportive learning environment that fosters positive behaviors and emotional well-being among students.

Key aspects of your role include:

  • Individualized Support: You provide personalized interventions and strategies tailored to meet the unique needs of each student, helping them overcome barriers to learning.

  • Collaboration: You work closely with parents, educators, and specialized staff to develop and implement effective behavior management plans and support systems.

  • Teaching Strategies: You employ various instructional approaches to engage students and promote academic success, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to thrive in the classroom.

  • Monitoring Progress: You track student behavior and academic performance, adjusting interventions as necessary to ensure continuous improvement and support.

  • Creating a Positive Environment: You establish a classroom culture that emphasizes respect, empathy, and inclusivity, helping to cultivate social skills and positive relationships among peers.

Your impact on students' lives can be profound, as you address not only educational needs but also help students develop essential life skills that can lead to future success. Through your dedication and expertise, you contribute significantly to fostering a safe and productive learning environment within elementary schools.

Best Schools to become a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher near New Mexico 2024

#8Coconino County

Northern Arizona University

Flagstaff, AZ

In-State Tuition:$10,644
Out-of-State Tuition:$17,352
Admission Rate:80%
Graduation Rate:59%
Total Enrollment:28,086
#3Maricopa County

Arizona State University Digital Immersion

Scottsdale, AZ

In-State Tuition:$10,978
Out-of-State Tuition:$13,248
Admission Rate:64%
Graduation Rate:52%
Total Enrollment:62,551
#2Maricopa County

Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$16,407
Out-of-State Tuition:$16,407
Admission Rate:78%
Graduation Rate:45%
Total Enrollment:101,816
#1Salt Lake County

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT

In-State Tuition:$7,404
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,404
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:49%
Total Enrollment:156,935
#7San Diego County

National University

San Diego, CA

In-State Tuition:$13,320
Out-of-State Tuition:$13,320
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:22%
Total Enrollment:18,631

Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher Salary in New Mexico

Annual Median: $63,560
Hourly Median: N/A

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher in New Mexico

To become a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher in New Mexico, you will need to obtain specific educational qualifications that align with the demands of this role. The following degree programs are typically required:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and Teaching:

    • This program focuses on the foundational principles of teaching young children, covering curriculum design, classroom management, and pedagogical strategies.

  • Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education and Teaching:

    • An emphasis on the developmental stages of young children will prepare you to support their educational needs effectively, particularly in early learning environments.

  • Bachelor's Degree in Special Education and Teaching:

    • This program equips you with the skills and knowledge necessary to work with children who have a range of disabilities, fostering an inclusive learning environment.

  • Bachelor's Degree in Education of Individuals with Specific Learning Disabilities:

    • This degree offers specialized training for addressing the unique educational needs of students with learning disabilities, focusing on tailored instructional methods.

  • Master's Degree in Counselor Education and School Counseling:

    • This advanced program provides training in counseling techniques and strategies that support students' emotional and behavioral needs, thereby enhancing their educational experience.

Completing one of these degree programs is essential for meeting the educational prerequisites for a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher position in New Mexico.

Best Schools to become a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher near New Mexico 2024

#8Coconino County

Northern Arizona University

Flagstaff, AZ

In-State Tuition:$10,644
Out-of-State Tuition:$17,352
Admission Rate:80%
Graduation Rate:59%
Total Enrollment:28,086
#3Maricopa County

Arizona State University Digital Immersion

Scottsdale, AZ

In-State Tuition:$10,978
Out-of-State Tuition:$13,248
Admission Rate:64%
Graduation Rate:52%
Total Enrollment:62,551
#2Maricopa County

Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$16,407
Out-of-State Tuition:$16,407
Admission Rate:78%
Graduation Rate:45%
Total Enrollment:101,816
#1Salt Lake County

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT

In-State Tuition:$7,404
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,404
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:49%
Total Enrollment:156,935
#7San Diego County

National University

San Diego, CA

In-State Tuition:$13,320
Out-of-State Tuition:$13,320
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:22%
Total Enrollment:18,631
Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher Job Description:
  • Teach academic, social, and life skills to elementary school students with learning, emotional, or physical disabilities.
  • Includes teachers who specialize and work with students who are blind or have visual impairments; students who are deaf or have hearing impairments; and students with intellectual disabilities.

Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher Required Skills and Competencies in New Mexico

  • Behavioral Management: Develop effective strategies to manage and support students with various behavioral needs, creating a positive classroom environment.

  • Communication Skills: Use clear and concise language when interacting with students, parents, and colleagues, adjusting your communication style to ensure understanding and engagement.

  • Empathy and Compassion: Show understanding and sensitivity toward student experiences, fostering a safe space where they feel valued and heard.

  • Problem-Solving Abilities: Analyze challenging situations and implement practical solutions tailored to individual student needs, facilitating conflict resolution and behavioral improvement.

  • Observation Skills: Observe student behavior meticulously to identify patterns, triggers, and areas needing support, using this information to inform interventions.

  • Adaptability: Adjust teaching methods and strategies based on the diverse needs of students, demonstrating flexibility in response to changing circumstances.

  • Collaboration: Work effectively with other educators, support staff, and parents to create a unified approach to behavioral support and intervention.

  • Crisis Intervention: Remain calm and effective in high-stress situations, employing appropriate techniques to de-escalate conflicts and ensure student safety.

  • Cultural Competence: Exhibit an understanding of and respect for the diverse cultural backgrounds of students, integrating this awareness into your teaching practices.

  • Knowledge of Developmental Psychology: Apply knowledge of child development and psychological principles to better understand student behavior and learning.

  • Data-Driven Decision Making: Analyze behavioral data to assess interventions’ effectiveness and inform future strategies for individualized support.

  • Patience and Resilience: Maintain a patient demeanor in the face of challenging behaviors and setbacks, demonstrating resilience in your approach to teaching and support.

Job Duties for Behavioral Support Elementary Teachers

  • Administer standardized ability and achievement tests to elementary students with special needs.

  • Attend professional meetings, educational conferences, or teacher training workshops to maintain or improve professional competence.

  • Collaborate with other teachers or administrators to develop, evaluate, or revise elementary school programs.

Technologies Used by Behavioral Support Elementary Teachers

Computer based training software

  • EasyCBM
  • Rethink Ed

Device drivers or system software

  • Screen reader software
  • The vOICe Learning Edition

Electronic mail software

  • Email software
  • Microsoft Outlook

Job Market and Opportunities for Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher in New Mexico

  • The demand for Behavioral Support Elementary Teachers in New Mexico is currently on the rise. This is largely due to an increased focus on inclusive education and the need for specialized support for students with behavioral challenges.

  • Educational institutions are recognizing the importance of having trained professionals who can effectively support students' emotional and behavioral needs. As a result, you can expect a growing number of job openings for these positions in both urban and rural settings.

  • Growth potential in this field is notable as New Mexico continues to implement educational reforms aimed at improving student outcomes. The state’s emphasis on mental health and behavioral support in schools contributes to the expansion of job opportunities.

  • Geographic hotspots for Behavioral Support Elementary Teachers in New Mexico include larger cities such as Albuquerque and Santa Fe, where there are numerous school districts actively seeking qualified personnel. Additionally, there are ongoing initiatives in smaller towns and rural areas designed to attract teachers to help address gaps in student support.

  • School districts across the state are increasingly investing in behavioral health programs and training for teachers, which may create additional opportunities for career advancement or specialization within your role.

  • Consider exploring partnerships with local organizations and community programs focused on behavioral health, as these relationships can provide valuable networking opportunities and resources designed to enhance your professional journey.

  • Professional development through local and state educational agencies often includes workshops and training on the latest behavioral support strategies, adding to the appeal of this career path in New Mexico.

Top Related Careers to Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher 2024

Adaptive Skills Instructor
Developmental Support Educator
Learning Disability Specialist
Inclusive Education Coordinator

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher in New Mexico

  • New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED)
    Explore resources and guidelines specific to special education and behavioral support services in New Mexico.
    NMPED Special Education

  • National Association of School Psychologists (NASP)
    A professional organization dedicated to advancing effective practices in the fields of school psychology and behavioral support. Offers resources, including research, best practices, and professional development opportunities.
    NASP

  • The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)
    This organization provides resources, research, and advocacy for special education professionals, including behavioral support teachers. Their website includes publications, webinars, and guidance on working with students with diverse needs.
    CEC

  • American Psychological Association (APA)
    Access research articles, publications, and resources on various topics related to child psychology and behavioral issues which can aid in your teacher perception and practices.
    APA

  • Behavioral Intervention Services, Inc. (BIS)
    Offers insights into best practices for behavioral intervention in educational settings and provides resources for training and support.
    BIS

  • National Resource Center for Mental Health Promotion and Youth Violence Prevention
    Access a wide range of materials focused on mental health promotion and behavioral support for youth.
    NRC

  • The Center for Responsive Schools
    Provides training and resources aimed at helping teachers create positive classroom environments conducive to learning, specifically through social-emotional learning.
    Responsive Classroom

  • New Mexico Behavioral Health Services Division
    Gain access to guidelines, strategies, and resources relevant to mental health services and support for students in New Mexico.
    New Mexico Behavioral Health Services

  • Edutopia
    A platform that offers articles, resources, and strategies geared towards enhancing classroom environments, including information related to behavioral support and management techniques.
    Edutopia

  • Institute for Education Sciences (IES)
    Provides access to research findings, tools, and resources on educational methods and interventions that can support behavioral needs in the classroom.
    IES

Utilize these resources to enhance your knowledge, skills, and effectiveness as a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher in New Mexico.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher in New Mexico

  • What is the role of a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher?
    As a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher, you focus on creating a positive learning environment for students with behavioral challenges. Your responsibilities include developing individualized education plans (IEPs), implementing interventions, and collaborating with parents and other educators to support students emotionally and academically.

  • What qualifications do I need to become a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher in New Mexico?
    You typically need a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field, along with a valid New Mexico Teaching License. Additional certifications or endorsements in special education or behavior analysis may enhance your qualifications and job prospects.

  • What skills are important for a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher?
    Key skills include strong communication, patience, compassion, and problem-solving. It’s also important to have classroom management skills, organizational ability, and a solid understanding of developmental psychology and special education strategies.

  • How can I find a job as a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher in New Mexico?
    Job openings can be found through school district websites, educational job boards, and professional organizations. Networking with other educators and attending career fairs can also help you in your job search.

  • What are the typical work hours for this position?
    Work hours generally align with standard school hours, typically Monday through Friday. However, you may also be required to attend meetings, training sessions, or school events outside regular hours.

  • What is the average salary for a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher in New Mexico?
    Salaries vary based on experience, education, and school district. As of 2023, the average salary for a special education teacher in New Mexico ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 per year, with behavioral support specialists potentially earning more due to their specialized skills.

  • What challenges do Behavioral Support Elementary Teachers typically face?
    Common challenges include managing classroom behavior, addressing diverse student needs, and working with parents and guardians who may be resistant to interventions. Additionally, navigating the administrative tasks associated with IEPs and documentation can be time-consuming.

  • Are there professional development opportunities available?
    Yes, many school districts offer professional development workshops and training specific to behavioral support techniques. You can also seek additional certifications or attend conferences to enhance your knowledge and skills in the field.

  • Can I work with students with varying disabilities in this role?
    Yes, as a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher, you will likely work with a range of students, including those with emotional disturbances, learning disabilities, and other special needs. Your role involves tailoring your approach to meet each student's unique needs.

  • What resources are available for Behavioral Support Elementary Teachers?
    Numerous resources are available, including professional organizations, online forums, and educational websites. These can provide curriculum materials, behavior management strategies, and support networks to help you succeed in your role.