Behavioral Specialist Sola Academy Job Listing at Fusion in Evanston, IL (Job ID 1886)

Description

Sola Academy by Fusion, an ISBE-approved therapeutic day school serving students with disabilities in grades 6–12, has an opening for a Behavioral Specialist. 

This position partners with students, families, and staff to address behavioral and social-emotional needs that impact learning, fostering student safety, self-regulation, and positive engagement through functional behavioral assessment, individualized intervention planning, crisis response, and staff coaching.

What You'll Do:

• Monitor student progress toward behavioral goals outlined in IEPs and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs).
  
• Conduct Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs) and develop individualized BIPs aligned to student needs.
  
• Develop strong relationships with students and provide support for behavioral and emotional needs.
  
• Respond to behavioral crises using de-escalation strategies, safety planning, and crisis intervention techniques.
  
• Follow up on behavioral incidents within 24 hours and implement individualized support plans.
  
• Teach and reinforce emotional regulation, executive functioning, social skills, and replacement behaviors.
  
• Maintain accurate documentation related to behavioral interventions and student progress.
  
• Attend IEP meetings and contribute to behavioral goal development and progress monitoring.
  
• Collaborate with teachers, social workers, administrators, and related service providers to ensure consistent implementation of interventions.
  
• Communicate with families regarding behavioral progress and support strategies.
  
• Provide coaching and modeling to staff on behavior intervention techniques and classroom management strategies.
  
• Support teachers in implementing BIPs with fidelity.
  
• Assist in developing classroom systems that promote positive behavior and reduce escalation.
  
• Participate in student support meetings and multidisciplinary team discussions.
  
• Other duties as assigned

What We're Looking For:

• Bachelor's Degree required; Master's Degree in Special Education, School Psychology, Counseling, Social Work, Behavior Analysis, or related field preferred.
  
• Experience working with students with emotional, behavioral, and learning disabilities.
  
• Knowledge of Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs).
  
• Experience in crisis intervention and de-escalation practices.
  
• Experience in therapeutic, alternative, or special education settings preferred.
  
• Expertise in behavior analysis and intervention planning.
  
• Knowledge of adolescent development and emotional regulation strategies.
  
• Strong conflict resolution and crisis management skills.
  
• Ability to build authentic relationships with students while maintaining healthy boundaries.
  
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  
• Strong problem-solving and organizational skills.
  
• Fluent use of technology and documentation systems.
  
• Ability to manage stress and self-regulate during high-emotion situations.
  
• Consistent, solutions-focused, and collaborative approach.
  
• Commitment to student dignity, belonging, and continuous improvement.
• Florida residents require level 2 background screening through https://info.flclearinghouse.com/.  

Why Sola Academy by Fusion?  

At Sola Academy, we combine the proven strengths of Fusion's individualized learning model with integrated therapeutic supports to meet the unique needs of every student. Our campuses are purpose-built communities where students feel understood, supported, and challenged to grow. 

You can learn more about us HERE. 

Benefits:  

We offer a package for full-time employees which generally includes:   

• Medical, dental, and vision plans  
• Vacation time (for certain positions) in accordance with company policy and state law  
• Accident and life insurance as well as short- and long-term disability   

In addition to the above items, full-time and part-time employees can generally participate in the following benefits:  

• Sick time and paid holidays in accordance with company policy  
• 401(k) plan with company match, based on eligibility   
• Tax-advantaged commuter benefits  
• Employee assistance program   

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality or sex.  Qualified applicants who have access to or contact with students or the public, who are responsible for the safeguarding of others' well-being, and who work with little supervision in close proximity to others will be required to complete a criminal history check once a contingent offer of employment is made. Applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with local law. The nature and gravity of an offense, the length of time since the conviction, and the nature of the job in question are all considered, and criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify employment. Any discussion of criminal history will occur only after the background check is completed and a copy is provided to the applicant.