Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher in New York Career Overview

As a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher, you play a vital role in fostering a positive learning environment for students with diverse behavioral needs. Your primary focus revolves around the following key aspects:

  • Individualized Support: You design and implement behavioral intervention plans tailored to meet the unique needs of each student, ensuring they receive the attention and strategies necessary for success.

  • Collaboration: You work closely with teachers, parents, and support staff to create a comprehensive approach to each student’s education. Open communication and teamwork are essential in developing effective behavioral strategies.

  • Positive Reinforcement: Employing techniques that encourage desirable behaviors is central to your role. You reinforce positive actions and provide constructive feedback, helping students build confidence and social skills.

  • Crisis Management: You are equipped to handle challenging situations that may arise in the classroom. By employing de-escalation techniques and maintaining a calm demeanor, you ensure that the learning environment remains safe and conducive for all students.

  • Skill Development: You focus on teaching students important life skills, such as problem-solving, communication, and emotional regulation, which are foundational for their future academic and social success.

  • Monitoring Progress: You regularly assess and track students' behavioral progress and make necessary adjustments to intervention strategies. This ongoing evaluation helps ensure that students are making strides in their personal development.

  • Advocacy: In your role, you often serve as an advocate for students' needs within the educational system. You work to ensure that all students receive necessary resources and support to thrive academically and behaviorally.

By fulfilling these responsibilities, you contribute significantly to the overall educational experience and well-being of your students. Your work not only supports individual growth but also promotes a more inclusive and accommodating school environment.

Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher Salary in New York

Annual Median: $84,720
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 York

To become a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher in New York, you will need to complete specific educational qualifications and training. Here are the key degree programs relevant to this career path:

  • Elementary Education and Teaching: This program typically comprises coursework in child development, instructional strategies, classroom management, and curriculum design tailored for elementary school students.

  • Early Childhood Education and Teaching: This degree focuses on the educational needs of young children, covering topics such as early childhood development, play-based learning, and strategies to address behavioral and emotional challenges in early learners.

  • Special Education and Teaching: A degree in this field provides you with knowledge about teaching students with diverse learning needs, including those with emotional and behavioral disorders. Coursework may include individualized education plans (IEPs), behavior modification techniques, and inclusive classroom practices.

  • Education of Individuals with Specific Learning Disabilities: This program specializes in understanding and supporting students with specific learning disabilities. You will learn strategies for assessment, individualized instruction, and interventions to promote academic success.

  • Counselor Education and School Counseling: This degree focuses on counseling techniques applicable in educational settings. You will gain insights into developmental psychology, conflict resolution, and behavioral interventions to support students' mental health and academic performance.

In addition to degree programs, you will need to fulfill the required student teaching experience and obtain a teaching license through the New York State Education Department.

Best Schools to become a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher in New York 2024

#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
#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
#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
#4Lynchburg City

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

In-State Tuition:$15,467
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,467
Admission Rate:99%
Graduation Rate:66%
Total Enrollment:96,709
#5Jefferson County

Lamar University

Beaumont, TX

In-State Tuition:$6,228
Out-of-State Tuition:$16,020
Admission Rate:84%
Graduation Rate:38%
Total Enrollment:16,803
#6Delaware County

Ball State University

Muncie, IN

In-State Tuition:$8,434
Out-of-State Tuition:$25,918
Admission Rate:69%
Graduation Rate:64%
Total Enrollment:19,777
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 York

  • Communication Skills: You must effectively articulate ideas and instructions to students, parents, and fellow educators. Strong verbal and written communication is essential for conveying behavioral strategies and updates.

  • Empathy and Compassion: A deep understanding of students' emotional and behavioral needs is vital. This allows you to connect with students on a personal level and to develop tailored support strategies.

  • Behavioral Management Techniques: Familiarity with various behavioral interventions and strategies is necessary. You should be able to implement techniques such as Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) to promote positive behavior.

  • Adaptability: You must be able to adjust your strategies and approaches based on individual student needs and dynamics within the classroom environment. Flexibility is key to managing diverse behavioral challenges.

  • Collaboration: Collaboration with other educators, support staff, and families is essential. You will need to work as part of a team to develop and implement effective behavioral support plans.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: You should have strong analytical skills to assess behavioral issues and identify appropriate interventions. Developing creative solutions in response to challenges is important.

  • Sensitivity to Cultural Differences: Being aware of and sensitive to the diverse backgrounds and experiences of students is important. This understanding helps in creating an inclusive environment and in guiding your behavioral strategies.

  • Conflict Resolution Skills: You need the ability to defuse conflicts and mediate disputes among students. Proficiency in conflict resolution helps maintain a positive classroom atmosphere.

  • Organizational Skills: Effective planning and organization are key to managing various behavioral support plans and tracking student progress. You should maintain detailed records of interventions and outcomes.

  • Knowledge of Child Development: Understanding the stages of child development will inform your expectations and approaches. This knowledge helps in crafting appropriate behavior management strategies.

  • Patience and Perseverance: Patience is vital when working with students who exhibit challenging behaviors. Your ability to remain calm and persistent can significantly impact student improvement and trust-building.

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 York

  • The demand for Behavioral Support Elementary Teachers in New York has been steadily increasing. Schools are increasingly recognizing the importance of specialized support for students with behavioral challenges and are actively seeking qualified professionals to fill these roles.

  • The growth potential in this field is promising. The expansion of inclusive education policies and an emphasis on social-emotional learning have led to more positions being created in both public and private schools. This trend is expected to continue, resulting in greater opportunities for those entering the profession.

  • Geographically, urban areas tend to have a higher concentration of openings. Specific hotspots for Behavioral Support Elementary Teachers in New York include:

    • New York City: The diverse and populous nature of the city creates a significant need for behavioral support services across its many school districts.
    • Westchester County: This area demonstrates a dedication to enhancing educational support, leading to a growing number of positions.
    • Buffalo and Rochester: Both cities are implementing initiatives aimed at improving student behavior and mental health, thereby increasing the demand for specialists in this domain.
    • Long Island: Suburban districts are also expanding their behavioral support resources, which contributes to the demand for professionals.

  • You may also find that rural districts are increasingly recognizing the importance of behavioral support. While the number of positions may not be as high as in urban areas, these districts often seek to hire qualified staff, creating unique opportunities for those willing to work in less populated areas.

  • Networking within educational circles, attending job fairs, and engaging with local education agencies can be effective strategies to uncover additional opportunities and to stay informed about the evolving job market for Behavioral Support Elementary Teachers in New York.

Top Related Careers to Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher 2024

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

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

  • National Association of Special Education Teachers (NASET)
    This organization provides extensive resources, including articles, webinars, and guidelines pertinent to special education and behavioral support.
    Visit NASET

  • Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)
    A professional association focused on advancing the education of students with disabilities, the CEC offers resources on best practices, policy advocacy, and ongoing professional development.
    Visit CEC

  • American Psychological Association (APA)
    The APA provides resources on behavioral management strategies, effective teaching practices, and research findings in education psychology.
    Visit APA

  • New York State Education Department (NYSED)
    Offers guidelines on special education regulations, professional standards, and resources specific to New York educators in behavioral support.
    Visit NYSED

  • American Federation of Teachers (AFT)
    AFT provides information, resources, and support for teachers, including those involved in special education and behavioral support.
    Visit AFT

  • Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB)
    This organization provides certification standards and resources for behavior analysts, which can significantly enhance the qualifications of a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher.
    Visit BACB

  • The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI)
    ABAI offers resources, conferences, and a wealth of information on behavior analytic practices and education.
    Visit ABAI

  • Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)
    PBIS offers frameworks and strategies to promote positive behavior and improve school climate, which are essential for your practice in behavioral support.
    Visit PBIS

  • Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
    The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) provides resources on integrating SEL into educational practices, crucial for behavioral support professionals.
    Visit CASEL

  • National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD)
    This resource offers insights on learning disabilities and effective teaching strategies that support students with behavioral challenges.
    Visit NCLD

These resources can provide you with valuable knowledge and up-to-date practices in the field of behavioral support education, enhancing your ability to effectively support both students and their families.

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

  • What are the primary responsibilities of a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher?
    As a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher, you are responsible for creating and implementing behavior intervention plans, providing individualized support to students with behavioral challenges, collaborating with parents and school staff, and promoting positive behavioral practices in the classroom.

  • What qualifications do I need to become a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher in New York?
    To work in this role, you typically need a Bachelor’s degree in Education or a related field, a valid teaching license, and completion of coursework in special education or behavioral support. Many positions also prefer or require a Master’s degree in Special Education or Applied Behavioral Analysis.

  • Is there a demand for Behavioral Support Elementary Teachers in New York?
    Yes, there is a growing demand for professionals in this field due to an increased awareness and understanding of the needs of students with behavioral challenges. New York schools are actively seeking qualified teachers to support these students effectively.

  • What skills are essential for a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher?
    Key skills include strong communication, patience, empathy, problem-solving, conflict resolution, and the ability to build positive relationships with students and their families. Additionally, knowledge of behavioral assessment techniques and intervention strategies is crucial.

  • Do I need to have experience working with students who have behavioral issues?
    While experience in this niche can be beneficial, many positions are open to new graduates. Gaining experience through internships, volunteer work, or related educational environments can enhance your resume and prepare you for the role.

  • What is the work environment like for a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher?
    You will typically work in a classroom setting within an elementary school, often collaborating with special education teachers, counselors, and administrators. The environment can be fast-paced and may involve working with students in both individual and group settings.

  • What types of students will I be working with?
    You will work with students who exhibit a range of behavioral challenges, including those with autism spectrum disorders, emotional disturbances, or learning disabilities. Each student’s needs will vary, requiring tailored approaches to support their development.

  • Can I pursue further education while working as a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher?
    Yes, many educators choose to pursue advanced degrees or certifications while working. Programs may offer flexible scheduling or part-time options that can fit around your teaching responsibilities.

  • What are the potential career advancements for a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher?
    You may advance into roles such as Special Education Coordinator, Educational Administrator, or even pursue clinical roles in behavior analysis. Continuing education and gaining additional certifications can further enhance your career opportunities.

  • What is the salary range for a Behavioral Support Elementary Teacher in New York?
    Salaries can vary based on factors such as location, level of experience, and education. Generally, you can expect a starting salary in the range of $50,000 to $70,000, with the potential to earn more as you gain experience and qualifications.

  • Are there any professional organizations for Behavioral Support Elementary Teachers?
    Yes, organizations such as the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) and the Association for Behavioral Analysis International (ABAI) offer resources, networking opportunities, and professional development tailored to educators in this field.