Best Schools for School Behavioral Specialists in 2024

Essential Education to Become a School Behavioral Specialist

Embarking on a career as a School Behavioral Specialist requires a combination of formal education, practical experience, and a deep understanding of behavioral theories and practices. Let's delve into the educational path that will equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary for this rewarding profession.

Undergraduate Degree

Your journey starts with obtaining an undergraduate degree. While you have some flexibility in choosing your major, certain fields of study provide a more relevant foundation for your future specialization. Consider the following majors:

• Psychology
• Education
• Social Work
• Sociology

These disciplines offer crucial insights into human behavior, development, and learning processes, which are foundational to understanding and addressing behavioral issues in a school setting.

Master’s Degree

After completing your undergraduate education, the next critical step is pursuing a master's degree in a field closely related to behavioral studies. Programs specifically designed for aspiring School Behavioral Specialists often combine theoretical knowledge with practical application. Look for programs that offer concentrations in:

• Educational Psychology
• School Counseling
• Behavior Analysis
• Special Education

Make sure the program you choose is accredited and includes coursework on assessment techniques, intervention strategies, and ethics in educational settings.

Certification and Licensure

In many states, becoming a School Behavioral Specialist requires obtaining certification or licensure. The requirements vary by state but typically include:

• Completing a master's degree in a relevant field
• Fulfilling supervised clinical hours working with children or adolescents
• Passing a state-specific or national examination

Some states might also require continuing education credits to maintain your certification or license.

Specialized Training and Certifications

To further enhance your qualifications and effectiveness as a School Behavioral Specialist, consider pursuing additional training and certifications such as:

• Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) certification, which requires additional coursework and supervised experience in behavior analysis
• Certificates in trauma-informed care, which can be particularly useful when working with children who have experienced trauma
• Workshops and seminars on specific behavioral interventions and strategies

By investing in your education and training, you not only increase your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to supporting the behavioral and emotional well-being of students. Remember, the field of behavioral intervention is ever-evolving, so embracing lifelong learning will ensure you remain at the forefront of best practices and emerging trends.

School Behavioral Specialist Education Resources

Choosing to become a School Behavioral Specialist is a commendable decision that puts you on the path to making a significant impact in the educational and personal lives of students. To support your education and career journey, it's vital to have access to the best resources. Below, you'll find a curated list of professional associations, industry publications, and other essential resources that will help you stay informed, connected, and ahead in your field.

Professional Associations

• National Association of School Psychologists (NASP)

  • NASP Homepage
  • NASP offers resources for school psychologists and behavioral specialists, including training, advocacy information, and a community of professionals committed to improving students' mental health and learning capacities.

• Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)

  • CEC Homepage
  • CEC is a great resource for professionals working with students who have special education needs. They offer professional development opportunities, including webinars and conferences, and publish relevant research.

• Association for Positive Behavior Support (APBS)

  • APBS Homepage
  • APBS focuses on the application of positive behavior support (PBS) and its impact on improving social culture and academic achievement in schools. They provide access to a network of professionals, conferences, and the latest PBS research.

Industry Publications

• Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions

  • Journal Homepage
  • This peer-reviewed journal focuses on research and practices related to positive behavior support. It's an invaluable resource for keeping up with the latest findings and methodologies in the field.

• Behavioral Disorders

  • Journal Homepage
  • Published by the Council for Children with Behavioral Disorders, this journal offers articles on research, education strategies, and policy regarding children with behavioral challenges.

• School Psychology Review

  • Journal Homepage
  • Offered by NASP, this publication provides scholarly articles on evidence-based practices in school psychology, including behavior management strategies.

Other Resources

• The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB)

  • BACB Homepage
  • The BACB certifies individuals as Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA), providing standards for practice, ethical guidelines, and resources for continuing education.

• Career.Guide: School Behavioral Specialist

  • Career.Guide Homepage
  • As your go-to guide for career advancement, Career.Guide offers in-depth articles, job outlook information, interview tips, and more specifically tailored for aspiring School Behavioral Specialists.

Utilizing these resources will not only enhance your knowledge and skills but also connect you with the broader community of professionals dedicated to making a difference in education through behavioral support. Whether you're just starting out or looking to deepen your expertise, these resources are invaluable tools for your professional development.

School Behavioral Specialist Education FAQs

What degree do I need to become a School Behavioral Specialist?

To start your career as a School Behavioral Specialist, you typically need:

• A bachelor's degree in psychology, education, social work, or a related field. This is the minimum educational requirement.
• Most positions, however, require a master's degree in school psychology, educational psychology, behavioral psychology, or a related area. Some roles may even prefer or require additional certification or licensure depending on the state or district.

Are there specific courses I should focus on during my studies?

Yes, focusing on certain courses can better prepare you for this role. Consider including:

• Child and adolescent development
• Behavioral assessment and intervention strategies
• Educational psychology
• Special education laws and ethics
• Counseling techniques for children and adolescents
• Crisis intervention strategies

Do I need any certification or licensure?

Certification and licensure requirements vary by state, but generally, you will need:

• Certification from the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) or a similar professional organization may be required or highly beneficial.
• State-specific licensure to practice in the public school system. This often requires completing a set number of supervised hours and passing a state exam.

What kind of continuing education is required?

Staying current in the field of behavioral psychology and educational intervention is crucial. Continuing education might include:

• Workshops and seminars on the latest research and strategies in behavioral intervention.
• Additional courses related to special education laws, counseling methods, or psychological assessment tools.
• Renewal of certification or licensure which typically involves completing a certain number of continuing education units (CEUs) within a renewal period.

How can I gain experience while still in school?

Gaining relevant experience is key to launching your career. Consider these options:

• Internships at schools or educational centers where you can observe and assist experienced specialists.
• Volunteer work with organizations that support children and teenagers, particularly those with behavioral or learning challenges.
• Part-time jobs or student positions in educational settings that allow for direct interaction with students.

Remember, becoming a School Behavioral Specialist requires a combination of formal education, hands-on experience, and ongoing learning to stay abreast of the latest developments in the field. Your dedication to understanding and improving the behavioral outcomes of students will be the cornerstone of your success in this rewarding career path.