About Teach Not Punish
Teach Not Punish (TNP) Family Resource Center operates on the fundamental belief that behavior is a learned skill that can be cultivated. Our mission is to equip families and professionals by fostering an environment where positive behavioral change is possible and achievable. We inspire individuals by providing educational opportunities and resources designed to motivate them toward healthier interactions and improved outcomes within their communities.
By collaborating with families and school systems in Tulsa, Teach Not Punish delivers comprehensive behavioral and academic programs. These initiatives focus on developing essential social skills and practical strategies, equipping students to consistently choose positive behaviors in school, at home, and in the broader community. We aim to create a resilient support network that uplifts families and inspires meaningful change.
Who We Are Looking for
TNP seeks an innovative, community-oriented, and collaborative Behavior Assistant to become an integral part of our dedicated team! The primary objective of this role is to nurture meaningful relationships with students and teachers to support positive behavioral changes within the educational environment. By working closely within a school setting, the Behavior Assistant will equip teachers, students, and their families, helping to establish a supportive network that fosters resilience and promotes success.
The ideal candidate will be assertive, willing to offer constructive criticism to students, and proactive in creating effective solutions to challenges as they arise. A successful Behavior Assistant at TNP will excel in building strong relationships with teachers and students while navigating educational environments with ease. They will demonstrate exceptional situational awareness and adaptability, enabling them to respond effectively to new information and dynamics. As fully integrated members of their assigned school sites, behavior assistants are pivotal in our mission to inspire positive change and equip teachers and students. If you are motivated by a commitment to our mission and are ready to make a meaningful impact, we would love to hear from you!
What the role entails
As a Behavior Assistant, your role will encompass a variety of responsibilities aimed at supporting students and enhancing their educational experience. This position is vital in creating a positive and supportive educational atmosphere, allowing students to thrive both academically and socially. Key duties include:
Social Skills Reinforcment:
- Actively reinforce age-appropriate and developmentally suitable social skills within the classroom environment.
- Serve as a role model by demonstrating socially appropriate behaviors and adherence to classroom procedures, setting a positive example for students.
- Assist in redirecting students to their tasks, ensuring they remain focused and engaged in their learning activities.
Instructional Support:
- Prompt students to complete tasks, encouraging accountability and helping them stay on track with their responsibilities.
- Work alongside TNP Staff to support small groups during instruction, offering cueing for attention and helping students to repeat steps and directions as needed.
- In early childhood settings, assist at tables or centers with small groups, fostering social skills development in a natural and engaging environment.
Supervision Support:
- Aid teachers in supervising students during hallway transitions, bathroom breaks, and other non-classroom activities to promote a safe and structured environment.
- Walk students to the nurse when necessary and supervise those who require individual restroom breaks in the Nurse's office or hallway restroom.
Data Collection and Assessment:
- Collect and maintain frequency data on student behaviors (e.g., tracking incidents) to help guide interventions and support.
- Collaborate with parents and teachers to identify specific needs and improve access to resources that benefit student development.
Qualities & Skills you will bring to TNP
- The ability to understand and relate to students' feelings and experiences, fostering a supportive environment.
- Clear and effective verbal and written communication skills to interact with students, parents, and TNP staff
- Actively reinforce age-appropriate social skills and demonstrate socially appropriate behavior to guide students.
- Knowledge of effective strategies to redirect students' focus and encourage engagement in tasks.
- Ability to work alongside educators and adjust support strategies based on the diverse needs of whole and small groups or individual students.
- Skills in providing appropriate cues and prompts to help students complete tasks and remain on track with their responsibilities.
- Ability to monitor and assess student behavior during transitions and non-classroom activities to ensure safety and structure.
- Being reliable in managing the supervision of students, particularly during critical times such as bathroom visits and transitions.
- A willingness to work collaboratively with teachers and staff to support classroom activities and foster positive student interactions.
- Proactive approach to generating creative solutions to challenges that arise in educational settings.
- Dedication to continuous improvement in supporting students and enhancing educational experiences.
- Understanding and appreciating the diverse backgrounds of students, parents, and families to better support their needs.
Job Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent is required.
- Associate's degree in education, psychology, social work, child development, or a related field is preferred.
- Additional coursework or certifications in child development, special education, or behavior management can be advantageous.
- Previous experience working with children in an educational or behavioral setting preferred.
- Experience in a classroom environment or with social skills training is highly desirable.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively interact with students, parents, and staff.
- Ability to model socially appropriate behavior and classroom procedures.
- Proficient in data collection and record-keeping for behavioral observations.
- Understanding of child development and age-appropriate behavior.
- Familiarity with behavioral management techniques and strategies.
- Awareness of special education laws and practices, including Individualized Education
- Crisis intervention training or certification is a plus.
- Compassionate, patient, and empathetic demeanor to support students' emotional and social needs.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team while also being capable of taking initiative.
- Flexibility and adaptability to meet the diverse needs of students.
- Physical stamina to be active throughout the school day, including walking, standing, and occasionally lifting students or materials as needed.