
The essential function of the position within the organization is to assist in the prevention and intervention of disruptive and at-risk behavior of students by facilitating behavioral services to students, families and educational staff. The position is responsible for coordinating diagnostic, education and therapeutic services; assisting teachers with classroom management skills; providing on-going and crisis counseling and assistance; maintaining records and reports as required and performing related professional and administrative work as assigned. The position works independently, reporting major activities through periodic meetings.
This position description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, knowledge or abilities associated with this classification, but is intended to accurately reflect the primary job elements.
Plans for the diagnostic, educational and therapeutic service needs of students with emotional/behavior disabilities.
Design, implement, monitor and follows up on behavioral intervention/prevention strategies.
Identifies and maintains cooperative working relationships with resources and agencies providing services and treatment for children with behavioral/mental health issues.
Provides professional development and assistance to teachers of students with emotional/behavioral disabilities in order to strengthen classroom management ability, including but not limited to teaching positive behavior support and verbal de-escalation skills, providing education in mental health issues and medical management issues; collaborates with specialists in other areas to provide comprehensive assistance to teachers and staff members.
Observes and reports on classroom management style of teachers and appropriateness of activities provided to ensure provision of a safe and emotionally supportive environment.
Facilitates planning meetings of involved teachers, social workers and clinicians as needed.
Observes students within the parameters of the classroom/school environment that have been referred because of disruptive or unusual behavior; suggests environmental changes for teachers to institute and implements interventions for students as needed.
Responds to crisis situations in a safe and caring manner.
Gathers information/data to support periodic and special reports documenting activities for areas of responsibility.
Performs clerical/administrative tasks such as preparing reports and correspondence, entering and retrieving computer data, sending and receiving faxes, answering the telephone.
Attends or conducts staff or other professional meetings to exchange information; attends professional classes, workshops or conferences to improve professional skills and maintain certifications as required.
Performs other duties as assigned or directed.
Requires education or training equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in school psychology, psychology, social work or other related field. Also requires two years of experience. (PROOF OF EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND/OR EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED)
LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS, AND REGISTRATIONS REQUIRED: Requires a valid state driver's license.
Degree Equivalency Formula:
Bachelor’s Degree= 4 years plus required years of experience.
Master’s Degree=6 years plus required years of experience.

A Major, Urban School District on the
Cutting Edge of Closing the Achievement Gap
Our Mission
Memphis-Shelby County Schools is one of the 25 largest school districts in the nation located in a large city with a hometown feel, Memphis, TN. Here in the Bluff City, we are dedicated to preparing all students for success in learning, leadership, and life.
• Our promise is that by 2025, 80% of our students will be college & career ready, 90% will graduate high school, and 100% of graduates will enroll in post-secondary education.
• Our work is deeply rooted in the belief that every child is capable of learning and that education is the great equalizer. With 84% of all students considered economically disadvantaged, Memphis-Shelby County Schools truly is a place where progressive leaders in education can make a difference in the lives of our country’s most underserved children.
Our Future
Though our challenges are significant, we are a district on the rise.
• Memphis-Shelby County Schools has been a level 5 growth district—the highest achievable level in TN--for the past three years.
• Memphis-Shelby County Schools has seen district-wide math proficiency scores double in the past three years.
• Memphis-Shelby County Schools I-Zone schools were once performing in the bottom 5% of TN, and are now making significant gains towards the goal of performing amongst the top 25% within five years.
We are a district committed to progressive strategies and practices that promote student achievement. We do this by ensuring that every classroom has an effective teacher and every school is operated by staff and leaders committed to excellence.