What Does a School Behavior Coach Do?

Behavior coaches are educational professionals who work with students, teachers, and administrators to help improve school climate and reduce problem behaviors. They provide individualized student support, train teachers on effective behavior management strategies, and work with administrators to develop school-wide behavior plans. 

Let’s take a closer look at the responsibilities of a behavior coach, the benefits of having one on campus, and the steps it takes to become one.

What are the Responsibilities of a Behavior Coach?

The specific responsibilities of a behavior coach vary depending on the school district and the needs of the students. However, some common duties include:

• Conducting functional behavior assessments (FBAs) to identify the underlying causes of problem behaviors

• Developing individualized behavior plans (BIPs) to help students manage their behavior

• Providing training to teachers on effective behavior management strategies

• Collaborating with administrators to develop school-wide behavior plans

• Working with parents to support their children’s behavior

Furthermore, the role is highly dynamic and adaptable, tailored to the unique requirements of each school district and its students.

Take the first step towards making a positive impact in students’ lives with our Behavior Coach Endorsement Program!

What are the Benefits of Having a Behavior Coach?

Having a behavior coach in a school can lead to numerous advantages that positively impact the entire school community. Now, let’s dive into a detailed exploration of these benefits:

Improved School Climate

One of the most significant benefits is improving the overall school climate. Behavior coaches help create a more positive and supportive environment by working closely with students. Through targeted interventions, they address behavioral challenges and teach students essential emotional management skills. As a result, students feel more valued, supported, and motivated to engage in their learning journey.

Reduced Problem Behaviors

Behavior coaches play a pivotal role in reducing problem behaviors among students. They collaborate with students, teachers, and parents to develop Behavioral Intervention Plans (BIPs) tailored to individual needs. These plans offer targeted strategies to address challenging behaviors effectively. Additionally, behavior coaches provide crucial training to teachers on evidence-based classroom management techniques, equipping them to address issues proactively and prevent escalations.

Improved Academic Achievement

When students’ behavior is effectively managed, they can devote more energy and focus to their academic pursuits. Behavior coaches’ interventions create a conducive learning environment, enabling students to concentrate on their schoolwork and achieve their educational goals. As disruptive behaviors decrease, classrooms become more favorable to learning, allowing teachers to deliver instruction more efficiently.

Increased Teacher Effectiveness

A behavior coach’s presence translates into increased teacher effectiveness within the classroom. By offering specialized training on behavior management strategies, they equip teachers with valuable tools to address diverse student needs. As teachers become more adept at managing behaviors, they can dedicate more time and attention to instruction, ensuring a more engaging and productive learning experience for all students.

What are the Steps to Becoming a Behavior Coach?

Experience in the education sector is invaluable for aspiring behavior coaches. Gain insights into classroom dynamics and student behavior by working as a teacher, paraprofessional, or counselor in schools. This hands-on experience will equip you with a deeper understanding of students’ challenges and the strategies needed to support them effectively.

Once you have educational experience, discuss your aspirations with your campus or district leadership. Ensure they are on board with your decision to become a behavior coach and seek their support throughout the process. From there, seek out professional development or trainings that will help prepare you for this new role.

For example, ESC Region 13’s Behavior Coach Endorsement Program (BCEP) is a comprehensive, yearlong training that equips participants with the knowledge and skills to effectively support students facing behavioral challenges. BCEP also offers a $1,500 scholarship towards the program’s cost, making it even more accessible. Reach out to learn more!

Finally, behavior coaches play an important role in schools by helping to improve school climate, reduce problem behaviors, and improve academic achievement. If you are interested in furthering your career and are passionate about helping students, becoming a behavior coach may be a good fit.